Improving dental X-ray imaging with a new detector technology
Official title: Semiconductor detector for low-dose, high-resolution dental DR imaging
Funded at Radiation Monitoring Devices, INC. · NIH-10929529 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new type of digital X-ray detector for dental images that will help keep kids safe by using less radiation while still giving clear pictures for dentists to see.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Radiation Monitoring Devices, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Watertown, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $854,588 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DE032290-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929529 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults who require dental imaging and are at risk of dental caries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require dental imaging or those with conditions that contraindicate X-ray exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new digital X-ray detector specifically for dental imaging that aims to reduce radiation exposure while maintaining high image quality. The approach involves integrating silicon-based imaging arrays with innovative semiconductor conversion layers, specifically thallium bromide, to enhance dose efficiency and image contrast. By achieving these improvements, the research seeks to provide safer dental imaging options, particularly for children who are more sensitive to radiation. The project will involve the development and testing of this new technology to ensure it meets the necessary standards for dental radiography.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer dental imaging practices with significantly reduced radiation exposure for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving imaging technologies, but the specific application of thallium bromide in dental radiography is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Radiation Monitoring Devices, INC.
Watertown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Christian, James F — Radiation Monitoring Devices, INC.
- Study coordinator: Christian, James F
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Ultra-dense ceramic scintillator for BrainPET imaging
A project to develop a new ceramic material that could make brain PET scans more precise and potentially safer for patients.
-
Developing a new type of ceramic material for brain imaging technology
This study is working on improving brain scans using a special technology called PET, so that patients can get clearer and more accurate images of their brains, which can help doctors make better diagnoses and treatment plans.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.