Digital X-Ray: What to Expect Before, During and After Your Appointment

A simple guide to digital X-ray, positioning, radiation, scan time and receiving your results.

What is a digital X-ray?

Digital X-ray uses a small, controlled dose of ionising radiation to create images of structures inside the body. Different tissues absorb X-rays differently: bone appears light, air appears dark and soft tissues appear in shades of grey.

“Digital” describes how the image is captured, stored and viewed. It does not mean the examination is radiation-free. Digital detectors allow the radiographer and radiologist to review images quickly and can support image processing and comparison with previous studies.

Before your appointment

Most plain X-ray examinations require no fasting or special preparation. The referral should identify the body region and clinical question so the correct views can be obtained.

Wear comfortable clothing without metal buttons, zips or underwire where practical.
Bring or arrange access to relevant previous X-rays, CT, MRI or ultrasound reports.
Tell the clinic before the examination if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
Advise the radiographer if you have difficulty standing, lying flat, moving a painful joint or holding your breath.

During the X-ray

A radiographer will position the body part between the X-ray tube and a digital detector. You may stand, sit or lie on a table. Several images from different angles are often needed because a single X-ray is a two-dimensional projection.

The exposure itself lasts only a fraction of a second. You must remain still and may be asked to hold your breath briefly. Positioning can be uncomfortable when an area is injured, but the radiographer will work with you to obtain the necessary images as safely as possible.

How long does it take?

Many examinations take approximately 5 to 15 minutes. Complex trauma, scoliosis, weight-bearing studies or multiple body regions may take longer because extra views or careful positioning are required.

After the examination and results

There is no radiation left in your body after a standard X-ray and you can usually return to normal activity immediately. A specialist radiologist reviews the images and sends a report to the referring clinician. MBR Health currently advises that results are generally available within 24 to 48 hours, but urgent and complex cases may follow a different pathway.

Related Patient Guides

We have more detailed information on many interesting regenerative and radiological topics on our Insights page

Frequently Asked Questions

For other FAQs please visit our FAQs page

Is an X-ray painful?
The X-ray exposure is painless. Positioning may be uncomfortable if you are injured or have limited movement. Tell the radiographer so the position can be adjusted where possible.

Why are several images needed?
Different angles reduce the effect of overlapping structures and help show alignment, fractures or joint changes more confidently.

Can I leave immediately afterwards?
Usually yes. Plain X-ray does not require recovery time unless your broader medical condition requires further assessment.

Important: Tell the radiographer before the examination if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, or if you cannot safely complete the requested position.

PATIENT GUIDE • PG-4001 [Patient information: A simple guide to digital X-ray, positioning, radiation, scan time and receiving your results.]

If you want to read more on specific X-Rays and Dental Imaging please see below:

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