This month, we'll tackle the potential causes of motion blur with clinical tips for improved stability and break down the latest ADA imaging interoperability updates, with the latest industry news and events.
EXPERT INSIGHTS
Why Interoperability Matters More Than Ever
Imaging is central to modern dentistry, and the ability for digital systems to work together is no longer optional. In a recent update, the ADA called for stronger interoperability standards to improve how imaging data is shared and used. For practices, this isn’t just a technical issue — it directly affects how efficiently teams work, how quickly images are reviewed, and how confidently clinicians make decisions. See what the ADA says — and why it matters to your team.
When imaging systems lack integration, dental personnel are forced to manually export or re-enter patient data. These extra or steps add inefficiency to every task, increasing chair time and creating more opportunities to introduce errors.
Better Access, Better Care
When imaging data is siloed in proprietary systems, clinicians can't easily access a comprehensive patient record. Better system integrations and interoperability ensure digital images can move seamlessly between providers and platforms, supporting more accurate and timely clinical decisions.
Standards Drive Efficiency
Without standardized communication protocol between systems, images may not display consistently across multiple operatories. This can lead to confusion, delays in review, or even retakes—impacting productivity and unnecessary radiation exposure.
Conquer Growth Barriers
As practices expand or adopt new technologies, poorly integrated systems become harder to manage. Interoperable systems make it easier to scale operations, maintain compliance, and integrate new digital tools to improve workflow, diagnosis, and most importantly - patient care.
CLINICAL INSIGHTS
Motion artifacts? Fix this First
Motion artifacts are one of the most common—and preventable—causes of retakes. A slight movement, poor positioning, or unstable X-Ray head can cause patient discomfort, poor image quality and compromised diagnostic value. Following established protocol to maintain sensor/holder stability and accurate geometry is critical for capturing clear, diagnostic images.
Even minimal movement during exposure can create motion artifacts and reduce diagnostic quality. Always keep the patient's head in contact with the chair's head rest to maintain stability during exposure. Give clear instructions—such as close slowly and hold still; displace the tongue towards the midline with the sensor/holder assembly and maintain proper interocclusal relationship, which will help minimize patient discomfort and resultant movement to mitigate motion artifacts.
Check Sensor Positioning First
Improper sensor/holder assembly positioning—whether related to teeth alignment, head angulation, or sensor position—can cause geometric distortion or motion blur. Rushing this step often leads to errors and unnecessary retakes. After placement of the sensor/holder assembly, ask the patient to smile, using the overhead light for good illumination, and use a dental mirror to retract the cheek to visually confirm the sensor/holder assembly and X-Ray cone are properly aligned. Taking a few extra seconds to confirm positioning before exposure helps ensure a clear, diagnostic image on the first attempt and minimizes retakes.
Stabilize the Sensor/Holder Assembly
Unstable or uncomfortable sensor placement can lead to the sensor shifting during exposure. Placing a cotton roll on the opposing arch can help stabilize the sensor/holder assembly, and then instruct the patient to gently close down. Ensuring the sensor is secure, properly positioned, and comfortable for the patient helps reduce movement and results in sharper, more consistent images and a more pleasant experience.
Secure the Tube Head
Make sure the X-ray tube head is securely positioned and stable before capturing the image. After use, replaced the arm against a wall with the head/cone pointed downward, as leaving the X-Ray arm fully extended can prematurely cause the articulated joints to loosen, resulting in instability. Persistent movement should be addressed with professional dental repair service.
If the X-Ray machine has a variable milliamperage selector, using a higher mA with a shorter exposure time can also help reduce blue by minimizing motion during capture, resulting in sharper images.
The Delta Dental Foundation recently granted over $1.4 million to oral health initiatives in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. The funding supports school sealant programs, resident training equipment, and dental hygiene workforce development through the ADHA.
On The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah discuss how AI tools like Google’s AI Overviews and Gemini have changed patient search habits. They offer actionable strategies to optimize your practice’s digital footprint and stay competitive in an AI-driven market.
The ADA is spotlighting 10 Under 10 Award winner Dr. Kathryn Pawlak, a pediatric dentist and founder of Planet Smilez Inc. Through immersive oral health education for at-risk youth, Dr. Pawlak is building a more diverse professional pipeline while demonstrating the vital impact of mentorship and advocacy in dentistry.
XDR® offers dentist-driven radiology, imaging, and diagnostic tools that enhance patient care, improve efficiency, and drive practice success by bridging the gap between dentistry and technology.
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