Review of DEXIS Digital Imaging System

Green is so versatile. It’s been determined to be one of the most restful colors for the human eye; in feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of arranging environments for health, happiness, and prosperity, green symbolizes renewal, energy, and new beginnings. We all want the green light, both at the next intersection and in our business ventures. In our office, digital radiography has saved another type of “green;” money from our already stretched budget.

Clinically, digital X-ray has been acclaimed by many of my colleagues for ease-of-use, speed, and diagnostic capabilities. In addition to that, my green-conscious practice saves hundreds of dollars each month on supplies such as traditional X-ray film, chemicals and disposal. Talk about pouring profits down the drain—we don’t even have that luxury. Environmentally-conscious San Francisco prohibits pouring certain hazardous chemicals down the drain. Hiring a reputable hauler to properly dispose of these chemicals means a service fee of at least $65 a month for only five gallons, plus container fees and even more costs for lead foil removal. Offices that separate the silver from the fixer themselves must purchase, install, operate, service, and strictly maintain a silver recovery system. Besides the mess, the staff’s time wasted on these arduous tasks would be better spent with our patients.

Since switching to our DEXIS digital x-ray system, when taking our state-mandated refresher courses on hazardous material handling, storage, disposal, and spill clean-up, we can skip the part on X-ray chemicals—and gladly do with a smile! Seeing people I care about ditch the protective gloves, goggles, and masks made me feel like I’d finally “cleared the air” for them and my patients, and the economic side effects were definitely welcome. Digital radiography is a money-saving accessory for the greening of the environmentally-responsible dental office.