
In our office we use only digital x-rays. Not only do digital x-rays expose patients to up to 90% less radiation than traditional film x-rays, they also have the following additional benefits: They are better for the environment because they don't require developing. They can be viewed on a computer monitor within seconds of taking the image.
Dental x-rays are one of the lowest radiation dose studies performed. A routine exam which includes 4 bitewings is about 0.005 mSv, which is less than one day of natural background radiation. It is also about the same amount of radiation exposure from a short airplane flight (~1-2 hrs).