Why I chose my digital sensor...

As part of DPR's category round-up for digital sensors (see introduction here), we did "snapshot" interviews with dentists using three of the market leading sensors to find out what they chose and why.

DEXIS® Platinum intra-oral sensor

888-883-3947 • dexis.com

The DEXIS® Platinum intra-oral sensor features a direct USB connection, new image capture technology, and an enhanced ergonomic design. This durable sensor is portable for use in multiple operatories, and its integrated USB functionality eliminates the need for adapters, controllers or docking stations.

While maintaining the DEXIS PerfectSize™ comfort and single-sensor concept, DEXIS Platinum incorporates TrueComfort™ design for precise and fast positioning for a more pleasant imaging experience. PureImage™ technology yields 16,000 shades of gray and more than 20 visible line pairs for image clarity, even when enlarged.

The easy-to-use DEXIS software also offers easy integration with all leading practice management programs including Dentrix, Easy Dental, PracticeWorks and Eaglesoft, digital pans and cameras to become the clinician’s complete and convenient imaging hub. Together, the sensor and software provide dentists with the best image quality, the most comfortable sensor, and the fastest workflow.
 

Q&A with Dr. Brad Durham

Savannah, Ga.

How long have you been using the DEXIS® Platinum intra-oral sensor?
I started with the DEXIS Classic sensor back in 1999 and never looked back. I upgraded to the Platinum sensor in 2010-I absolutely love the image quality.

What are the most important benefits you’ve realized in using the sensor?
I’ve been using this technology so long that it’s completely natural for me. But I haven’t forgotten what film was like…the waiting, the mess, the squinting. I can diagnose with DEXIS images much better than with film. The images and the enhancement tools leave nothing to the imagination for me or my patients. I don’t take many x-rays myself so I polled my team: They like that it’s direct USB. They just have to carry the sensor itself into the operatory-no cards or boxes-and they love having only one sensor that can take all the shots they need. They would NOT let me go back to film because they would have to wait on developing, clean the processor and listen to the complaints of patients-all stressful and counterproductive situations.

Why would you recommend this product to a colleague?
First and foremost, it’s got to be diagnostics. It’s common knowledge that digital x-ray is better than film. And I believe that the DEXIS Platinum sensor gives the best image quality out there. Plus, the software is so easy to use. I’m integrated with other programs and can easily use my images for all kinds of education and communication. If you’re waiting to convert from film or to upgrade your current system, stop waiting and just get DEXIS.

Gendex GXS-700™

800-323-8029 • gendex.com

Gendex GXS-700™ intraoral sensors are designed to make migrating from film or upgrading a digital system easier than ever. They deliver brilliant image acuity via the latest in CMOS sensor technology. With more than 20 visible line pairs, the sensor’s high-resolution images elevate diagnostic capabilities.

Two ergonomically designed sizes yield improved patient comfort for adults and children due to rounded corners and smooth-edge finishes. The direct USB connection creates ultra-portability and ease-of-use-there are no controller boxes or docking stations. They are manufactured with durable materials and components to increase the life span of the product, and were engineered for smooth integration into practice management and many imaging programs.

Q&A with Dr. Parag Kachalia

San Ramon, Calif.

How long have you been using the Gendex GXS-700 sensor?
I have used the GXS-700 sensors in my office for nearly 2 years now. The sensor was a significant improvement over my prior system. In particular, the GXS-700 sensor works very well within my practice management software.

What are the most important benefits you’ve realized in using the sensor?
The benefits I have realized fall into three major categories:
Clarity - While digital radiographs have been around for a number of years, I always felt like I lost a little clarity until the GXS-700 sensor came into my practice. The high-level of clarity has made me very comfortable both from a diagnostic standpoint and in the education of my patients.
Size - I have a general practice and I see patients between 1 and 101 years old. The ability to have two different sensor sizes allows me to predictably take radiographs on my entire patient base in a comfortable manner.
Ease-of-use  - Today’s dental operatory is very different than it was even 15 years ago. As more technology enters our operatory, we need to be cognizant of simplicity of use. One of the key reasons I decided to incorporate the Gendex GXS-700 sensors is because of the simple USB connection. There was no additional equipment to buy or to travel from operatory to operatory and risk damage.

Why would you recommend this product to a colleague?
I would wholeheartedly recommend this sensor because of image clarity, the multiple sensor sizes, and its ease-of-use. Generally speaking, when you go to a tradeshow, you see various vendors displaying phenomenal radiographic images, and they may not be representative of every captured radiograph. With the Gendex GXS-700 sensors, this “best of the best” image quality is what you will experience in your own office on a daily basis.

Schick Technologies' CDR Elite

800-873-7683 • schicktech.com

The CDR Elite sensor combines outstanding image quality with an easy-to-use design and hard-wearing construction. The sensor’s images provide bold bone tribeculation, crisp lamina dura and a clear, clean DEJ to meet clinicians’ diagnostic needs.

Removable cable technology on all three sensor sizes ensures the simplicity and convenience of a one-step cable replacement process. Simple and easier sensor placement, even for vertical bitewings, comes from an optimally located sensor-cable interface and a new color scheme that provides high visibility in the oral cavity. CDR Elite systems also are compatible with the Schick WiFi, which combines leading-edge RFID technology image quality-providing a better patient and clinician experience. Schick WiFi can be used with CDR Elite sensors of all sizes. All Schick systems are sold, installed, and serviced by Patterson Dental. Call for a free in-office demonstration.
 

Q&A with Dr. Daniel Maas

Fullerton, Neb.

How long have you been using the Schick CDR Elite sensor?
Since Dec. 1, 2011

What are the most important benefits you’ve realized in using the sensor?
We find the WiFi to be very reliable, without the cable going back to the computer in the operatory. Less entanglement for the operator and the patient. The image quality is a definite improvement over the previous generation. It's also very user friendly to the staff. Support from Schick has always been prompt and solution driven. Our office was the first in the region to use the WiFi sensors, and we have found that the product had been thoroughly tested before release. We had an installation that went without incident, and the system was up and running quickly. We were able to use the existing WiFi router in the building, so set up was very simple. We did the install on a day that we were treating patients and didn't have any delay in patient care during the install time.

Why would you recommend this product to a colleague?
It’s very user friendly, and Schick has been very up front and helpful. No glitches.