Xeroradiography in dentistry

Abstract

Extensive review of the literature reveals that the diagnostic benefits of xeroradiography in medicine are rapidly being recognized. It is viewed with particular interest by clinicians managing neoplasms of the laryngopharyngeal, mammary, and joint regions. Xeroradiography is a definite aid in cephalometric analysis. Examples of use have been presented. The main disadvantage of xeroradiography in dentistry is that of slow-speed developing in comparison with that of our current silver halide films. This becomes significant when dealing with intraoral films. However, the only disadvantage that we have experienced with xerocephalometrics is that of head orientation. Because our radiology department is not equipped with a wall mount for proper alignment along the horizontal and vertical planes, the head position must be estimated with a plumb line. Very often, therefore, the head may be tipped in one direction or another. This, however, is not difficult to correct. I have noted several definite advantages that include: --Sharp, clear-cut contrast (because of the edge effect), which enhances image quality. --Simplified viewing (no need for view boxes). --Less radiation than that required for conventional radiographs. Because of the benefit of multiple-tissue diagnosis on one radiograph, there is no need to take multiple radiographs to record tissues of different densities, with the possible exceptional of special situations in tomography. --Dry, automatic processing, therefore, eliminating the need for mixed chemicals and darkroom. --Less cost to produce a xeroradiograph than a conventional radiograph because of the lower cost of materials and equipment (for example, no darkroom requirement). The Russian investigators reported an eightfold reduction in cost. Xeroradiography (from Greek word xeros meaning dry) is a radiographic process in which the quality is critically dependent on the potential of the surface charge on the plate, the amount of radiation exposure, and the conditions of development, all of which must be carefully controlled. This technique is gaining general acceptance. Special courses are being offered to teach technicians this process. I believe we have come on a new horizon in diagnostic radiography. Only through further investigation and research will we be better able to delineate the exact role of xeroradiography in dentistry.