Digital Oral Radiography

In this chapter, the objective is to provide information regarding the use of oral digital radiographs. A brief history is explained, followed by information on the use of intraoral and extraoral systems for direct and semi-direct use. The description details the effects, radiation, dose, costs, pre-processing and post-processing of digital images (brightness and contrast, zoom, measurements, sharpness and smoothing, high relief, pseudocolor, inverted radiography), advantages and disadvantages. Digital systems can have several image manipulations tools, and these can be accessed in the radiographic acquisition system software or in specific software for this purpose. The use of computed tomography is detailed for the treatment plan or prognosis, in dental implant treatment planning, endodontics (canal morphology, inflammatory lesions, root vertical fractures), maxillofacial surgery (impacted teeth and third molars evaluation, temporomandibular joint assessment), with presentation of clinical cases for illustration.