Development and application of a novel nanophosphor scintillator for a low-dose, high-resolution digital X-ray imaging system

The recent development of a novel nanophosphor screen technology by Bhargava RN and associates (Nanocrystal technology, Briarcliff Manor, NY) started the exciting new phase of digital nanocrystal X-ray technology and its applications to the continually changing field of digital radiology. Charge-Coupled Devices (CCD) and Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductors (CMOS) traditionally use scintillators for conversion of X-ray photons to visible light, and these, in turn expose the sensitive digital image receptors in the process of recording images. During the conversion process, light gets scattered, resulting in loss of utilization efficiency and indirectly contributing to the loss of image resolution. The newly developed and patented nanophosphor screen converts the X-ray photons to light, and captures the light by way of reflection and microchanneling to light collecting devices and or electronic detectors. This concept of increased resolution while capturing images of teeth and associated structures via digital X-ray sensors, although theoretically accepted; requires in-vitro and in-vivo testing. The prototype of the sensor is in the design phase, and once the benefits of this new X-ray imaging system are completely proven, successful large-scale application of nano-scintillators to enhance the image resolution combined with a dose reduction can be achieved. Application of this technology will revolutionize the way digital radiographic images are acquired in dentistry along with possible applications in the near future in the fields of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine.