Advancements in computer technology have given dentists a whole new way to look at your teeth.

"The computer-era has brought us a technology we call digital radiography," says Dr. Kris Tumilowicz with Dental Dimensions.

It goes one step beyond the tradition X-ray, to provide customized digital images of your mouth.

"With this technology, we use computerized equipment and software to capture X-ray images of your mouth and teeth, and then expose a small sensor plate that feeds the image into the computer," he describes.

There's many advantages. "It's faster, safer, and the x-ray images may be enhanced electronically, as well as stored and retrieved," he says.

The amount of radiation is about 80 percent less than with conventional X-rays, and the images can be seen on a computer monitor just moments after exposure.

"Digital X-ray technology allows more accurate diagnosis and treatment because it provides a large easy-to-see image, and allows us to make adjustments and catch problems earlier," he says.

The digital X-rays can then become part of your dental record and be easily e-mailed to specialists and insurance companies.