Diagnostic-quality images are the most important feature in a dental x-ray system. While buying something top-of-the-line isn’t always necessary, the images should be of sufficient quality for interpretation, which helps a vet create an appropriate treatment plan.

Assuming the machine produces great x-ray images, other factors can help a veterinary practice decide which system is the best fit for them. Here are a few factors to consider…

Film, CR, or DR

In addition to the generator that produces the x-ray beam, it’s important to think about where the image is picked up and how it’s processed. This article primarily focuses on veterinary digital dental x-ray, which can mean CR (computed radiography) or DR (direct radiography). Film is an option, too, of course. Here are some considerations for each modality…

Film is typically the most time-consuming since it takes time to develop each shot. It also consumes more materials than digital, including the films themselves and processing chemicals. This older technology can cost less initially, but supply costs over time must be factored in.

CR and DR both produce a digital image rather than a physical one. The biggest difference is the way the images are processed. DR sends the image directly to the viewing software just seconds after the digital sensor is exposed, so it is incredibly fast and convenient. The tradeoff is that DR is typically the most expensive modality. But this depends on the specific equipment being compared.

CR often costs a bit less, but it involves an extra step. Phosphor plates are used for the exposure, and they must be run through a processor to obtain the image and then wipe the plate clean for the next exposure. Although this is slower than DR, some veterinary practices improve efficiency by having multiple plate readers to allow more than one to run at a time. 

Plate or Sensor Sizes

Many small animal veterinarians see patients ranging from 2-pound chihuahuas and small cats to large breed dogs of 150 pounds or more. Obviously, the teeth in these patients also vary widely in size.

For this reason, it’s desirable to have plates or digital sensors in more than one size—even several different sizes if possible. 

There might even be additional applications, such as exotics radiographs, for certain sizes of sensors.

Local Regulations

Some jurisdictions or countries may have regulations on handheld units. It’s important to research first, prior to purchasing any new radiation-producing equipment. Also, the room or suite where the machine would be used should meet all safety regulations.

Setup and Installation

It’s important to consider where dental radiographs will be performed. Depending on the size and arrangement of the designated room, some installation options will fit well, while others will be limited by space constraints.

Common options include wall or ceiling-mounted, stand-mounted, or handheld veterinary dental x-ray units. For busy clinics with more than one prep or x-ray area, a portable handheld unit might be a good fit. When mounting a unit or considering an electrical supply, it’s best to have professional help to make sure everything is secured and safe.

User Friendliness

A user-friendly machine can improve efficiency. This means smoother practice flow, less frustrations and headaches, and potentially a higher number of x-ray studies performed per day or per week (and thus a better return on investment).

Anything that makes dental x-ray studies run more efficiently (minimum number of steps) and intuitively can help. Consider how patient and client information will be input. Look to see if the interface is intuitive and easy to understand. Presets can be very helpful, too.

Think about staff training. It’s no secret that dental radiographs (including that bisecting angle shot) can be a bit tricky at first for anyone who’s new to them. Some companies might offer a veterinary dental radiography training session or CE for team members after the purchase of a new machine.

Software Compatibility and Reliability

Digital veterinary software facilitates the viewing, storing, and sharing of radiographs—including dental ones. Good software makes these functions faster and easier, while software problems can waste time and create headaches. 

In addition to basic functions, check how images are formatted, i.e., DICOM, jpeg, etc. Make sure the software is compatible with your practice management software. Ask about technical support, security/privacy/protection against hackers, and how the company handles any issues that arise.

Support 

Durability is an important consideration. But even with durable equipment, sometimes accidents or glitches happen.

Protect your investment with warranties, a service plan, and/or 24/7 technical support. But remember that not all plans are created equal. See exactly what the plan covers. One common concern is bite damage (the sensors do go in the patient’s mouth, after all!).

Find out the expected timeline for repairs and whether loaner equipment is available in the meantime. And consider whether replacement parts are likely to be available for the foreseeable future.

Always start by making sure veterinary dental x-ray equipment meets its primary purpose: taking a good quality, diagnostic images. 

After that, the purchase isn’t always an “apples-to-apples” comparison. Shop around and see if there’s a good system available with features that benefit your practice and make the process smoother and more efficient.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM