I have a new dentist who seems quite good--compassionate, knowledgeable,
etc.

Yesterday I went for a cleaning and checkup, and told the hygienist about
one cavity I was aware of. The hygienist took x-rays and did the cleaning.
Then she told me that the dentist had looked at my x-rays, and had said that
they looked ok--the dentist said I should just make an appointment for the
one filling.

I believe they did charge me less than they would have if the doctor had
actually looked at my mouth. But...is this an adequate way to determine what
fillings might need to be done? The x-rays were digital, but I don't imagine
that would give more information than standard x-rays (correct me if I'm
wrong).

Presumably the hygienist would have alerted the dentist if she noticed
anything unusual, but past doctors have not only taken x-rays, but also
poked around in my mouth with a metal probe or one of the newer laser
probes. A year ago, in another city, a different hygienist went through my
mouth thoroughly with the laser probe, and then the dentist came in with a
metal probe and confirmed her impressions.

So is my new dentist following good practice?  I'm eager to catch problems
at an early stage, and would welcome any reactions from dentists.

Thanks!