What Is Dentrix Imaging?

Dentrix Imaging is Henry Schein One’s new imaging platform that replaces the traditional Dexis Integrator workflow for many Dentrix users.

Instead of launching a separate imaging program, Dentrix Imaging is designed to integrate directly into your Dentrix workflow while managing:

• Intraoral X-rays
• Panoramic X-rays
• CBCT scans
• Intraoral photos
• Extraoral photos
• Imported radiographs

If your office recently updated to Dentrix G7.8 or later, you’ve likely noticed this transition.

Opening Dentrix Imaging

There are two common ways to open Dentrix Imaging.

The first is directly from the patient’s chart by clicking the black image preview window.

You can also launch Dentrix Imaging using the Imaging button on the patient toolbar.

If your system still opens Dexis instead, you can change the default imaging software through the Dentrix Bridging Settings.

Understanding the Dentrix Imaging Layout

When Dentrix Imaging opens, you’ll typically land on the History tab.

Here you’ll find:

• Previous bitewings
• Periapicals
• Panoramic images
• CBCT scans
• Intraoral photos
• Extraoral photos

You can quickly filter images by:

• Date
• Tooth number
• Image type
• Recent exams

As your patient database grows, these filters become extremely helpful for locating older radiographs.

Missing Images After Updating?

One of the most common questions I’ve received is:

“Why aren’t my old Dexis images showing in Dentrix Imaging?”

For most offices using the Dentrix/Dexis integration, older images should automatically migrate into Dentrix Imaging.

However, this conversion typically happens gradually as patient charts are opened.

If your images never appear, Dentrix Technical Support may need to complete the conversion on their end.

If you’re coming from another imaging software—not Dexis—you’ll likely need assistance importing or converting your existing database.

How to Import Existing X-Rays

Dentrix Imaging also allows you to import existing images.

This is useful when:

• Receiving X-rays from another office
• Importing older records
• Migrating images from another software platform

Simply select Acquire, choose the correct image type, select Import From File, and browse to the image you want to add.

The imported image will immediately become part of the patient’s imaging history.

Capturing Digital X-Rays

The Acquire tab is where you’ll take new radiographs.

Dentrix Imaging includes several preset templates including:

• FMX
• Bitewings
• Periapicals
• Panoramic images

Before capturing images, simply choose your sensor, click Start, and begin acquiring images.

As each radiograph is captured, Dentrix automatically places it into the appropriate location within the selected template.

Creating Custom X-Ray Templates

One of my favorite improvements in Dentrix Imaging is the ability to build completely custom templates.

You can create custom procedures for:

• Bitewings
• PA series
• Intraoral photos
• Extraoral photos
• Specialty image sets

You can also:

• Assign tooth numbers
• Change acquisition order
• Save favorites
• Build templates specifically for your office’s workflow

This is especially useful for intraoral photography, something that was much more cumbersome in the older Dexis workflow.

Simple Mode vs. Advanced Mode

Dentrix Imaging offers two different interfaces.

Simple Mode provides a streamlined layout for everyday image acquisition.

Advanced Mode gives you complete control over custom templates, procedures, and editing tools.

Most clinical team members will probably spend the majority of their time in Simple Mode, while Advanced Mode is excellent for setup and customization.

Built-In AI Image Quality

One feature I really like is the automatic image quality review.

Immediately after taking an X-ray, Dentrix Imaging analyzes the image and alerts you if potential quality issues are detected.

If needed, you can quickly retake only the affected image rather than repeating the entire series.

Editing and Enhancing Images

Dentrix Imaging includes several built-in enhancement tools.

You can:

• Adjust brightness
• Change contrast
• Rotate images
• Flip images
• Apply enhancement presets
• Zoom
• Colorize images
• Invert images

These tools make it easy to optimize images without leaving the software.

Annotating and Measuring X-Rays

You can also add annotations directly onto your images.

Available tools include:

• Arrows
• Circles
• Boxes
• Freehand drawing
• Text notes
• Linear measurements

These are useful for documenting findings or highlighting areas during patient education.

Comparing and Exporting Images

Dentrix Imaging allows you to compare radiographs side-by-side to evaluate changes over time.

You can also export images as JPEG or PNG files, print them, or share them with specialists and referring offices.

Final Thoughts

Dentrix Imaging introduces a modern workflow with several improvements over the previous Dexis Integrator experience.

While there is definitely a learning curve after the update, once you understand the layout and customization options, it becomes a very efficient imaging platform.

If you’re still learning Dentrix Imaging, I recommend watching my complete video walkthrough where I demonstrate every feature step by step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dentrix Imaging replace Dexis?

For many Dentrix users, yes. Dentrix Imaging replaces the traditional Dexis Integrator workflow while continuing to support many existing imaging devices.

Can I still access my old Dexis images?

Yes. Most offices should have previous images converted into Dentrix Imaging, although some conversions may require assistance from Dentrix Technical Support.

Can I create custom X-ray templates?

Absolutely. Dentrix Imaging allows you to create custom procedures, assign tooth numbers, change acquisition order, and save favorite templates.

Is Dentrix Imaging better than Dexis?

That depends on your workflow. Dentrix Imaging offers tighter integration with Dentrix, customizable templates, AI-assisted image quality checks, and improved image management, while longtime Dexis users may need some time to adjust to the new interface.