Image management in dentistry.

Dentistry has seen a significant increase in the number of digital imaging technologies that have become commercially available during the past year. Computers, digital still cameras, scanners, intraoral cameras, digital X-ray systems, and their associated imaging software are all positioned at the top of the list of technologies that dentists plan to purchase within the next 12 months. This article provides an overview of the principles of image management in the dental office with an emphasis on hardware and software requirements as well as practical applications that a properly implemented image management system can afford the modern dental office.