This month, we’re focusing on the details that help keep your imaging workflow at its best. From optimizing how radiographs are viewed to simple habits that can help extend the life of your intraoral sensors, a few thoughtful adjustments can make a meaningful difference. Plus, catch up on the latest industry news, insights, events and more.
EXPERT INSIGHTS
Optimizing Your Radiograph View
Great dental radiographs don't occur by chance or stop at capture; how they are viewed matters. Monitor settings, the viewing environment, and display preferences all play a major role in diagnosing. Below are four key factors you'll want to have in place to ensure the best possible image quality for every radiograph you take.
Proper Exposure & Placement
Keep an eye on the exposure meter in XDR and aim for the green zone (ideally to the right of center) on every capture. This ensures enough anatomic detail is captured without over-exposing the patient.
Viewing Environment
Angle monitors away from glare from windows or overhead lighting when reviewing radiographs for diagnosis- this improves contrast perception and makes subtle grays easier to distinguish.
Monitor Settings
Set all monitors to their highest native resolution in Windows Control Panel, and adjust brightness/contrast so the full range of 256 gray shades is visible. A simple SMPTE test pattern can help you calibrate this accurately.
Sharpening Level & Display
These are a matter of personal preference, but if you're unsure what settings work best for you, the XDR Clinical Department is happy to help you fine-tune them.
CLINICAL INSIGHTS
Protect Your Investment with Proper Sensor Care
Digital intraoral sensors are the hardworking backbone of your diagnostic workflow, and consistent handling habits can drastically extend their lifespan. To protect your investment, simply incorporate a few straightforward practices into your daily operatory routine. By doing so, your team can keep your sensor running smoothly and efficiently for years to come. You can review our full step-by-step breakdown in the XDR Sensor Care & Maintenance guide.
Gentle Patient Phrasing
Instruct patients to "gently close" rather than "bite down" to prevent heavy, concentrated, sensor-damaging pressure on the sensor housing.
Protect Against Drops
Avoid letting the sensor impact hard surfaces like countertops or floors to protect the internal components; the resultant shock will cause damage of the scintillator.
The Nickel Rule
As 90% of sensor damage occurs at the sensor cable, avoid any kinking or twisting of the cable: ensure any loop or bend is never less than the diameter of a nickel.
Surface Disinfection Only
Never autoclave or heat-sterilize sensor: rely instead on FDA-approved plastic barriers and intermediate-level chemical wipes.
Eastern Iowa Community College has received a $200,000 grant from the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation to help establish a new Dental Hygiene Associate of Applied Science program in partnership with Community Health Care. The funding will support updated clinical training spaces and hands-on learning opportunities for future dental hygienists, helping strengthen the oral health workforce while expanding access to care in the community.
Episode: Better Patient Care Starts with Better Questions
Great patient care begins with great communication. In this episode of The Dentalpreneur Podcast, discover how asking better questions can help dental professionals better understand their patients, build trust, and create a more thoughtful, patient-centered experience. It’s a practical reminder that sometimes improving care starts simply by knowing what to ask—and taking the time to listen.
Dr. ArNelle Wright has been named one of the American Dental Association’s 2026 10 Under 10 Award recipients, recognizing dentists who are making an impact within their first 10 years of practice. A general dentist, practice owner, educator and co-host of the ADA’s Dental Sound Bites podcast, Dr. Wright is being recognized for her contributions to leadership, education and the dental profession. She and her fellow honorees will be celebrated this October at the ADA Scientific Session in Indianapolis.
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.
XDR Radiology, 11300 W Olympic, Suite 710, Los Angeles, CA, 90064
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