4 Common Dental X-Ray Sensor Issues & How to Fix Them

Dental x-ray sensors offer high-resolution images that are essential for diagnosing and treating patients effectively. But like any device in a dental office, dental x-ray sensors are prone to wear and tear over time. Continuous daily use, frequent repositioning, and exposure to cleaning agents can all take their toll on dental imaging equipment. Understanding the most common dental x-ray sensor issues and how to fix them can help your dental office reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary replacement costs.

Four Common Dental Sensor Problems and Their Solutions

1. Damaged or Frayed Sensor Cables

These cables are subject to constant bending and twisting as they are handled during patient imaging. Over time, the strain often leads to the cable fraying or internal breaks, most commonly near the connector ends. When this happens, the sensor may intermittently disconnect, produce inconsistent images, or stop working altogether.

How to Fix Dental Sensor Cable Issues:

The best way to handle this problem is to focus on prevention and professional repair. Avoid excessively bending the cables and use protective sleeves or cable supports to extend the life of the sensor. If the sensor has already been damaged, however, do not attempt a DIY repair, such as tape or soldering, as this can cause more damage. 

2. Damage to the Sensor Housing

Accidental bites or dropping the equipment can crack the sensor casing or damage the fragile internal components. Even a small crack in the housing can compromise the sensor’s internal components and allow contaminants or liquids to enter. Sometimes the damage to the housing is obvious, with visible cracks or dents. Other times, you may only notice damage when the image quality begins to deteriorate.

How to Fix Damaged Sensor Housing:

If the housing is damaged but the sensor still functions, protective barriers can provide temporary protection against contamination until the sensor can be repaired professionally. The best long-term solution, however, is to have the housing or internal components professionally repaired, or replace the equipment if it’s not repairable. Continuing to use a cracked sensor without addressing the issue can lead to further internal damage and more expensive repairs. 

3. Connectivity and USB Failures

A dental x-ray sensor that disconnects randomly or fails to connect entirely is an especially frustrating problem. This can result from a damaged USB connector, loose wiring inside the sensor, or failure of internal electronic components. Diagnosing the source of the issue requires a bit of troubleshooting. Test the sensor on different workstations and USB ports to rule out a computer or software-related problem. If the issue persists across multiple devices, then there’s likely an issue with the sensor itself.

How to Fix Problems with the Sensor USB ports:

Repairing a damaged connector or addressing an internal wiring issue usually requires specialized tools and expertise. Professional dental x-ray sensor repair ensures the problem is properly diagnosed and corrected without risking further damage. 

Image Quality Problems

4. Damage from Liquids

Dental x-ray sensors are regularly exposed to disinfectants and sterilization agents, as well as saliva. If proper protocols are not followed, liquid can seep into the sensor’s casing, causing corrosion and electrical failure. This type of damage is often difficult to detect until it has already caused significant internal damage. 

How to Fix Damage from Liquids:

The best protection against liquid damage is prevention. Always use approved protective sleeves and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting. If there is any suspicion that liquid has entered the sensor, it is important to stop using it and have it evaluated immediately. Continued use can worsen the damage and make repairs even more difficult or costly. 

How to Prevent Dental Sensor Issues

While some wear is inevitable, proper care can greatly extend the life of your dental x-ray sensors:

• Train staff on correct handling and positioning techniques.
• Avoid excessive bending or twisting of cables. 
• Store sensors safely when not in use. 
• Use protective barriers and follow approved cleaning protocols. 

When to Seek Professional Repair

Many dental sensor issues can’t be fixed safely or effectively with DIY methods. If your sensor has persistent connection issues, significant image quality problems, or physical damage, it’s best to send it to Dental Sensor Repair Experts for evaluation. We offer free testing and diagnosis, as well as fast, reliable repairs. Fill out our form to request a free quote and earn $100 off your first invoice.