Blog

Gendex News

Recent Posts

WHY CHOOSE THE GENDEX GXS-700 DIGITAL X-RAY SENSORS

Posted by Gendex News on Aug 8, 2012 9:35:00 AM

The latest census data* on dental technology adoption tells us that more than two- thirds of U.S. dental offices use digital x-ray systems. While there are still a number of offices in the process of moving from film to digital, many dentists embarked on their digital journey years ago. These practitioners have been able to appreciate the benefits of digital imaging and also have come to a better understanding of what digital sensor features are most critical to their practice success.

Now we could write pages on why to choose the Gendex GXS-700 digital x-ray sensors for your practice, but we think it would be more valuable for you to hear it direclty from GXS-700 owners. Dr. Parag Kachalia is a GXS-700 user since 2010, and he has kindly shared his story and point of view on the subject with the folks at Dental Products Report, the leading dental resource for dental products.     

The digital x-ray journey for Dr. Parag R. Kachalia and Dr. Charity L. Duncan at Innovative Dental Concepts in San Ramon, CA started in 2004. Since then, many things have changed. Today, new patients expect modern dental offices to provide digital x-ray systems — conventional film x-ray is a thing of the past. In other words, digital imaging "is an expectation now," says Dr. Kachalia.  

More recently, the practice was ready to upgrade its digital imaging infrastucture and move up to the new Gendex GXS-700 system. In a video interview with Dental Products Report, Dr. Kachalia talks about his discovery process, the factors that were important to the selection, and why the office chose the Gendex GXS-700 sensors:

 

 

Among the factors mentioned during the interview, Dr. Kachalia highlights the ability to fit all patients, efficiencies achieved in his office, and the value of digital imaging software to engage and educate patients.

Abitity to fit all patients

As a family dentist, Dr. Kachalia keeps all his patients in mind. To accommodate all sizes or shapes of patients’ mouths, format and comfort of digital sensors was a key element in the decision-making process. The GXS-700 sensor system, with an adult and pedo format, encompasses all patient sizes and all applications. To offer the best possible experience to his patients, the sensor housing design with smooth, rounded corners, no seams, and no sharp areas was another major factor in the decision-making process.

Efficiency with no compromises

Implementing digital imaging comes with key benefits — no worries about dark rooms, processors, films, and chemicals that need to be ordered. The GXS-700 takes efficiencies to a new high. The simple and direct USB connection of the GXS-700 makes the system truly plug and play — "just pop it into the USB port, and you are ready to go," says Dr. Kachalia. This makes digital imaging very easy for the entire staff to use.

Digital imaging as engagement and educational tool

One of the main benefits of a digital imaging system is patient education. The ability to enlarge images on the screen, apply treatment tools like colorization, and zone in on areas of interest allow Dr. Kachalia to engage patients on a completely new level.

GendexGXS-700 Digital X-ray Sensor 

 

*76% of U.S. offices own a digital x-ray system (Dental Products Report, Oct. 2011 Tech Census).

More »

Topics: Digital Technology, Reviews, GXS-700 Digital Sensors

DENTAL PANORAMIC X-RAY TRADITION AT GENDEX

Posted by Gendex News on Jul 31, 2012 9:01:00 AM

The Gendex GXDP-300 and GXDP-700 systems are the pinnacle of Gendex's innovation in dental panoramic x-ray. Their intelligent touchscreen interfaces, sleek design features, and advanced diagnostic options are only a few examples of the company's commitment to innovation. These achievements were the culmination of decades of dedication to dental imaging. So let's step back in time for a journey along Gendex innovations in dental panoramic x-ray technology. 

During the 1970s, the GE-3000 was introduced as the company's first line of panoramic x-ray machines. The film support was cylindrical in shape to allow the film to rotate as it was being exposed to x-rays. A few years later, the breakthrough Panelipse™ was launched. This was a benchmark panorex and the first system to produce panoramic images with a constant magnification factor to achieve a proportionate representation of anatomical structures within the image. 

X-ray-Tradition-1.png

Right: The GE-3000 Pan (1970s), Left: The GXDP-700 Pan, Ceph, and 3D (2011) 

During the 1980s, Gendex's continuous desire to innovate and elevate the quality of dental care led its research and development team to the design and launch of the Gendex GX-Pan, which later became truly iconic dental panoramic x-ray equipment. The next generation of dental pans was even more exciting. The Orthoralix series, with its 9200 and 9000 versions, were among the first to adopt software-driven motion. Their direct digital series, the Orthoralix 9200 DDE and 8500 DDE, led the Gendex digital revolution in dental panoramic technology and real-time imaging processing capabilities. 

So what makes today's digital panoramic x-ray machines so special?

Here are some key features: 

  • Instant imaging results to reduce wait times
  • Eco-friendly process with no chemicals
  • Increased consistency of imaging results
  • Software image enhancements available 
  • Electronic sharing and insurance claim processing
  • New diagnostic views from bitewing to 3D scans

In August 2011, Gendex introduced a completely new extraoral platform featuring the GXDP-300 Pan and GXDP-700 Pan/Ceph/3D systems. These units reflect the Gendex tradition and our commitment to the clinician's experience, patient comfort, and innovation. The easy-to-use and intuitive touchscreen interfaces make operating these panoramic units as easy as 1-2-3. Gendex EasyPosition™ patient positioning system allows for a comfortable and proper patient position, resulting in crisp panoramic imaging results.  

If you are wondering why you should invest in a digital panoramic x-ray machine or upgrade your existing panoramic equipment, read Dr. Velazquez's ADA Peer2Peer study case on implant planning made possible with the aid of 3D x-ray scans, or listen to Dr. Annie Sohn talking about adopting digital panoramic x-ray technology in her practice.

 

To learn more about our latest technology marvels, just hit play on the videos below:  

Gendex GXDP-300 Digital Pan:

Gendex GXDP-700 Digital Pan, Ceph, and 3D Cone Beam (CBCT):

More »

Topics: Panoramic X-ray Imaging, Pan/Ceph/3D, Panorex, CBCT cone beam 3D

DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Posted by Gendex News on Jul 11, 2012 11:46:00 PM

As a pediatric dentist, I get to see children grow—from birth through age 18. During the short time of an office visit, my mission is to educate them about their dental health, providing a foundation for a future of successful dental care. To achieve my goals, I need to have theright tools. Digital radiography, with GXS-700™ sensors, is an important element in my toolbox—for diagnosis, patient education, and communication.

pediatric-dentistry.jpeg

In my fifth year of practice, I have already encountered several types of imaging systems. When I first opened my practice, I knew that I was not going to use traditional filmradiography. I didn’t need the extra expense of the film, and all that goes with it—paper, charts, and hazardous developing chemicals. So, in my quest for a “chartless practice,” I started out with a phosphor-plate system. While it was still better than film, I was not satisfied with the image quality and artifacts that occur with that imaging method. Before I switched to Gendex sensors, I utilized another company’s digital system. But I found that it was not user-friendly for my staff, and it was also difficult to capture x-rays on children.

The GXS-700 sensors come in two sizes, which give us flexibility for our wide range of patient ages, shapes and sizes. With children, the x-ray experience must be comfortable. The sensors’ rounded corners and smooth edges help to achieve that goal, so the children have a positive experience. In pediatric dentistry, I am constantly amazed that kids let us do the dental procedures that we have to do. Even in the most challenging of situations, the durable sensors allow us to do a great job. For example, small children are more prone to bite and damage phosphor plates, so we have had to replace those more frequently. Even worse, those bite marks show up as artifacts on the image. We don’t have to worry about that with the digital sensor. Even if they do bite it, the sensor will not be damaged, and the images stay clear and detailed.

Another great aspect of these digital sensors is speed of image capture. GXS-700 sensors are user-friendly and ergonomic, so team members can take the x-rays quickly - digital images also are immediate, so no time is wasted. With kids on the go, that is a great accomplishment!
Digital images also give me an opportunity to communicate with all ages—the patients and their parents. We always encourage parents to be present at the time of diagnosis. On the computer monitor, I can enlarge the image, magnify, point out areas of concern, and know that the patients are actually seeing what I see in clear, vivid detail. Clinicians are trained in reading x-rays, but parents need high-quality, clearly visible images to see certain aspects, such as areas of decay. When parents understand my areas of concern, they are more inclined to accept treatment.

pediatricDentistry2.jpeg

For the children, digital images are a great education tool. They are excited to see their x-rays and learn about their teeth, and over time, watch themselves grow. I show them how their “big kid teeth” are forming, and then teach them about proper dental care and diet so that their permanent dentition will remain healthy in the years ahead.

The Gendex sensors, with their direct USB connectivity, offer a lot of flexibility. We have USB ports in multiple treatment rooms, and we can just plug in, without docking stations, controllers or adapters. Sensors can travel with us to the hospital where some children require treatment under general anesthesia. All patient records can be obtained via the sensors and downloaded into the patient’s file in the office when we get back. 

Besides the advantages to the patient, the office staff also benefits from our Gendex sensor technology. Digital information can be transmitted electronically for insurance purposes, to referring colleagues, or even to patients.

I discovered my passion for pediatric dentistry as a young girl, working for my own dentist. My enthusiasm for helping kids to maintain healthy teeth continued throughout my dental school years, and now extends to my private practice. I truly love my job, and Gendex technology makes working with my young patients even more rewarding

Jessie Banks, DDS. 

Dr. Jessie Banks completed her pediatric dental residency and internship at Texas A&M University—Baylor College of Dentistry and received her D.D.S from the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Banks has extensive experience in working with children who require special needs through her residency training at Baylor’s Dental Clinics, Children’s Medical Center and at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Dr. Banks has also completed her Board Certii cation in Pediatric Dentistry and is now a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She was the recipient of the Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award for scoring in the top 3% of the nation for the written board exam.

Catalyst magazine, Issue 3, 2012

 

 

More »

Topics: Digital Technology, Reviews, GXS-700 Digital Sensors

WHY INVEST IN A PANORAMIC X-RAY MACHINE?

Posted by Gendex News on Jun 19, 2012 8:23:00 AM

If you are pondering whether to invest in a panoramic x-ray machine, or which panorex is the best option for you and your office, the following video might provide the answer.

For Dr. Annie Sohn— a general practitioner in Seattle, WA—the true inspiration behind her investment in the Gendex GXDP-300 panoramic radiographic unit was ultimately the ability to provide a better and more comprehensive service to her patients. At the core of her decision-making process was the realization that the ability to have valuable diagnostic information from panoramic x-ray images would allow her to determine the best in-office treatment plan for her patients or, in more complex cases, to be able to refer the patient appropriately.

 

Dr. Sohn's journey in digital panoramic imaging started by reading a post on the Dentaltown forum, "I would like to extract teeth" (requires a user log in). The string of comments, cases, and experiences from orther dental practitioners inspired Dr. Sohn to explore the possibility of expanding the imaging capabilities of her practice with the addion of a digital panoramic x-ray machine. After consulting with peers, visiting trade shows, and a very thorough selection process, the doctor finally come to the final selection: the Gendex GXDP-300 Panoramic.

Dr. Sohn was thrilled to be able to accomodate the new unit in her cozy office, and more importantly, to see how her new panoramic x-ray machine has become an asset to the entire team. 

Gendex Panoramic, Bitewing, TMJ

When we stopped by Dr. Sohn's dental office with the Experience Gendex mobile showroom, the Gendex GXDP-300 unit was already installed and in use for 5 months. Dr. Sohn shared her experience with us, and gave one last bit of advice to other dentists that are considering the Gendex GXDP-300 digital pan: "If you don't have one, you should definitely get one".

For more info on the Gendex GXDP-300, visit the product page

If you are interested in discussing your practice digital imaging needs and learning more about how the Gendex GXDP-300 can benefit you and your patients, contact a Gendex sales representative by clicking on the banner below. We will reach out to you as soon as possible.

 

 

More »

Topics: Panoramic X-ray Imaging, GXDP-300 Panoramic, Digital Technology, Reviews, Panorex

NEW AAOMR GUIDELINES FOR 3D IMAGING USE IN IMPLANT PLANNING

Posted by Gendex News on Jun 15, 2012 7:46:00 AM

Over the last few years, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), also known as dental 3D imaging, has become more widely adopted in the dental offices. The information delivered by this technology creates invaluable data for the treatment and implant planning process.

Recently, the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (AAOMR) updated its guidelines for dental imaging in implant treatment, suggesting cone beam CT as the preferred method for presurgical assessment of dental implant sites. Their recommendations are not mandatory; however, their goal is to give dental professionals the qualified opinion on imaging while reducing radiation risks to the patient.

AAOMR advises dentists to use a cone beam CT scanner during any augmentation or implant procedure in order to include cross-sectional imaging orthogonal to the site of interest. CBCT imaging provides an extensive amount of information for the clinician, such as bone structure, bone density, root positioning, fractures, and clear measurements of the anatomical structure. Both doctors and patients alike can now visibly understand the precise diagnosis, method of entry, treatment and recovery.

The AAOMR is continually researching the best methods for dental procedures. The current updated guidelines support the benefits of cross-sectional imaging for implants, which is best achieved with CBCT.

The Gendex GXDP-700 Panoramic 3D imaging system provides the necessary valuable information required for these types of diagnostic procedures while limiting the exposed are to a targeted 4x6cm or 6x8cm volume. This COMBO x-ray system captures both advanced panoramic projections and 3D scans with the touch of a button. The PerfectScout™ system enables 3D scans to zone for the exact area of interest. The GXDP-700™ offers 33 panoramic options — 11 projections for three patient sizes, two 3D volume sizes plus a dose-saving scout view, and the ability to add cephalometrics — 15 options, 5 projections for three patient sizes.

 

More »

Topics: CBCT cone beam technology, GXDP-700 Pan/Ceph/3D unit

THE "EXPERIENCE GENDEX" BUS DELIVERS GXS-700 TO WINNING OFFICE

Posted by Gendex News on May 21, 2012 12:34:00 PM

Team Gendex has been on the road with our newest innovations over the past 11 months, bringing the latest in dental imaging technology to your front door. We have always driven innovation, but we are now literally “driving innovation” around the country. We have made dozens of stops, teaching about our exciting products and giving dental professionals a hands-on, up-close experience with everything from intraoral sensors to 3D CBCT systems.

One of our most recent stops not only brought more people on board the bus, but also surprised the winner of our GXS-700™ digital dental sensor sweepstakes. Dr. William Poe from Los Alamitos, California was ecstatic as the bus drove into his parking lot. Before winning our GXS-700 digital sensor kit, the office was using phosphor plates. The prize came just at the right time as they were looking to upgrade to digital sensors in the near future.

 

More »

Topics: Experience Gendex Bus, GXS-700 Digital Sensors

RADIATION EXPOSURE FROM DENTAL X-RAYS

Posted by Gendex News on Apr 18, 2012 9:21:00 AM

What is the Radiation Dose relative to Dental X-rays?

X-rays are an established and essential part of every clinical practice. Gendex imaging solutions provide clinical benefits while supporting the ALARA principle on the use of radiography. Specifically:

  • Dental X-rays provide valuable information that allow a clinician to better evaluate what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums.
  • Dental X-rays assist in precise diagnosis and treatment plans with the goal of better clinical outcomes.

It is the dentist that will make a decision, based upon clinical evaluation, as to whether dental X-rays are warranted and consistent 
with ALARA principles. Here are the detailed ADA Recommendations

Here are some data points about radiation doses relative to some common dental x-rays. Note that intraoral sensors do not emit radiation (the source of the radiation is from the X-ray generator). Digital intraoral sensors require less radiation dose than traditional film to produce an image. Gendex dental X-ray solutions are uniquely designed to enable the dentist to further reduce radiation dose thus exposing the patient to less radiation than other digital sensors.

Relative radiation doses:


      – A digital sensor BW/PA is 0.004 – 0.006 mSv (50 – 75% less than equivalent film image) 1


      – A D-speed film BW/PA is 0.017 mSv1

      – A digital pan is 0.020 mSv and a digital ceph is 0.007 mSv2


      – A 3D SFOV standard resolution, low dose 4x6 scan range from ~ 0.017 to 0.035 mSv2


      – A GXCB-500 HD 8x8 scan is 0.053 mSv


      – A flight from London to Los Angeles is 0.080 mSv3


 

Haven't switched digital sensors yet? Or Are you ready to upgrade to the latest digital imaging solution? Read more about the key reasons to choose Gendex GXS-700 sensors. 

1  European Commission. Radiation Protection 136. European Guidelines on Radiation Protection in Dental Radiology. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2004
 
2  John B. Ludlow, DDS, MS, FDS RCSEd, Professor, Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA, April 25, 2011
 
3  Optimisation of radiation protection for pediatric and adult patients in radiography and computed tomography. Geleijns, Jacob. Proceedings of Third European IRPA Congress, June 2010 

More »

Topics: Digital Technology

THE IMPACT OF DENTAL IMAGING TECHNOLOGY

Posted by Gendex News on Jan 27, 2012 2:26:00 PM

Do you remember the first time you saw a big, flatscreen TV? It surely amazed you and all who were lucky enough to see it in action. Technology is engaging, illuminating, and inspiring. And technology in the dental office has the same impact—it can lead to greater understanding, less invasive treatment, and a better overall perception of the office.

In this economy and competitive atmosphere, technology can also set you apart. Many dental educators agree that technology builds patient loyalty, and this loyalty is a large part of the success of dentists as practitioners and business owners.

So what are patients looking for? A recently published article coached patients on questions to ask their potential new dentist. Rated right alongside, “Where did you receive your dental training?” patients also were advised to ask:

  1. “What is the most recent technology that you have added to your practice?”
  2. “If your fees are more expensive, what makes your practice a good investment?”
  3. “What services do you provide in your area that other dentists do not?”
  4. Digital Imaging can provide a positive answer to all three of these questions. 

On a recent DPR Friday weekly video broadcasts, Director of Content for Advanstar Dental Media, Thais Carter, poses the question, “Have you ever wondered what patients think about the technology in your office?”  This video gives a bit of patient Amanda Davis’ perspective on her recent visit to the office of one of our Gendex owners, Dr. Brian Couch in Coppell, Texas.

The full article, “The Multi-Layered Comfort of 3D Technology,” yields more insights into Amanda’s experiences with the new Gendex digital pan-3D system and with Dr. Couch.  

Find out more about our technology at www.gendex.com.

impactofdentalimaging-resized-600.jpg

More »

Topics: dental imaging solutions

DENTAL PANORAMIC IMAGES AND BONE HEALTH

Posted by Gendex News on Dec 22, 2011 2:27:00 PM

Many factors are involved with keeping teeth in good condition. Besides brushing and flossing, changes in the body chemistry during certain times of life can also affect the dental health. A report on the new study published in the journal Nature Reviews Endocrinology discusses the possibility that dental x-rays can be used to investigate the bone structure in the lower jaw, and predict who is at greater risk of fractures in the future.

The data comes from a reportedly “globally unique” study of women in Gothenburg, Sweden.  Over a span of 43 years, researchers at the University of Gothenburg's Sahlgrenska Academy examined 731 women several times during the study. X-ray images of their jaw bone were analyzed in 1968 and 1980, with special attention to the incidence of subsequent fractures.  The study concluded that the jaw’s bone structure “was sparse in around 20% of the women aged 38-54” at the first examination, and that these women were at significantly greater risk of fractures. The report continues that “The study also shows that the older the person, the stronger the link between sparse bone structure in the jaw and fractures in other parts of the body.”

Maintaining proper nutrition and regular dental visits are proactive ways to detect health issues before they progress. By capturing images of the upper and lower jaw, a panoramic x-ray can discover bone abnormalities, TMD, jaw tumors, cysts or trauma, fractures or impacted teeth, and lead to effective diagnosis and treatment of bone and gum disease, oral cancers, and joint or sinus deformities.  Grethe Jonasson, researcher at the Research Centre of the Public Dental Service in Västra Götaland initiated the fractures study, called “A prospective study of mandibular trabecular bone to predict fracture incidence in women: A low-cost screening tool in the dental clinic.” Jonasson explained, “Dental x-rays contain lots of information on bone structure. By analyzing these images, dentists can identify people who are at greater risk of fractures long before the first fracture occurs.” New pans from Gendex—the  GXDP-700 and GXDP-300 provide practitioners with clear, sharp scans to advance diagnostic capabilities. While many factors affect bone density and the condition of the dentition, panoramic imaging is an effective way for dentists to monitor patients’ quality of life and make constructive recommendations for better dental health well into their senior years.

gxblog4-resized-600.jpg

More »

Topics: Panoramic X-ray Imaging, GXDP-700 Pan/Ceph/3D unit

MEET JONATHAN YOUNG FROM OUR GENDEX IMAGING TEAM

Posted by Gendex News on Dec 14, 2011 2:28:00 PM

Jonathan Young enjoys the excitement of a new season, whether it is the cool, crisp winter snows of New England or the warm wind wafting off of a mountain lake. As a coach, he welcomes the opportunity to teach kids about teamwork and be involved in his children’s sports events. As a Gendex Rep, he continues his talent for mentoring, teaching customers about the digital world and radiography equipment that suits the specific needs of each practice. To a seasoned Rep like Jon, bringing world-class products to growing dental practices is a commitment that continues all year round.

Tell us about your family.

My wife and two children reside in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire. My family appreciates all that New England has to offer. We are surrounded by the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean just a few miles away. We spend our summer months enjoying Lake Winnipesaukee and the Mountains that surround our special summer home. We enjoy skiing in the winter months; boating, hiking and water sports in the summer. We welcome the seasons with great excitement. We are kept busy with our children’s activities—we enjoy quality family time the most!

 

What are your hobbies?

Boating, golfing, coaching kids’ sports, and preparing my son to be a loyal Boston sports fan.

 

How did you reach your current position at Gendex?

My college degree is in computer science. While I sold dental film and chemicals for 7 years, it was Gendex that offered me the ability to combine my knowledge of radiography and computers.

What is your “on-the-job” philosophy?

Always deliver more than you promise and work harder than my competition to earn the business.  

Tell us about the response of your “Experience Gendex” bus events.

Two words come to mind—unique and impressive. 

What has been your greatest accomplishment?

Professionally, it’s being a mentor and a respected member of a world-class sales organization.

What do you want Gendex customers to know about you?

I will make sure that they are happy with their Gendex investment.

What is your definition of success?

In my work, I know I have success when I have happy customers that are eager to recommend Gendex to the dental community.

More »

Topics: Gendex Team