What Are Digital X-Rays?
Digital x-rays are an advanced imaging technology that offer a safer, more efficient alternative to traditional x-rays. Unlike conventional x-rays, digital x-rays use much lower levels of radiation, reducing a patient’s exposure by up to 90%. This makes them a safer option for both patients and dental professionals. At our practice, patient safety is our top priority, and we ensure that all the equipment we use meets the highest safety standards.
The process involves a small sensor or scanner placed inside your mouth to capture detailed images of your teeth and jaw. These images are transmitted to a computer, where they are instantly available for review. This technology allows us to view high-quality images right in the exam room during your appointment, helping us diagnose dental issues more accurately and plan your treatment efficiently.
Why Are Digital X-Rays Necessary?
During a regular dental exam, we can only assess the surface of your teeth and gums. Digital x-rays allow our dentists to view the roots and hidden areas beneath the surface, providing a more comprehensive picture of your oral health. These images help us detect issues such as infections, decay, and other potential problems that may not be visible during a routine exam.
Digital x-rays enable us to identify problems quickly, allowing us to take prompt action and prevent complications. In addition to detecting decay, they also help us monitor unerupted teeth or track growth in the jaw, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy at every stage of development.
How Do Digital X-rays Work?
When you visit our office for a dental exam, our team will place a small sensor or digital scanner inside your mouth to capture detailed images of your teeth and gums. These images are instantly transmitted to our computer software, allowing us to view them immediately in the exam room.
Depending on the type of x-ray needed, we will use either a sensor or scanner to take the images. You’ll have the opportunity to review the digital images with our doctor, who will explain the findings and, if necessary, discuss a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How Often Are Digital X-Rays Needed?
The frequency of digital x-rays depends on each patient's individual dental needs. Our team will only take an x-ray when it's necessary and with your consent. During your visit, we will review your medical and dental history, as well as any symptoms or concerns that may indicate the need for an x-ray. We use digital x-rays to monitor growth, detect new areas of decay, and evaluate gum disease, ensuring that we provide the most accurate and effective care for your oral health.
What Types of Digital X-Rays Are Available?
Digital x-rays capture detailed images of both the inside and outside of your mouth. The type of image taken will depend on the specific area that needs to be examined. Different x-ray techniques are used based on the location and nature of the issue being assessed.
Bite Wing X-Rays
Bite wing x-rays involve biting down on a small sensor, allowing us to capture images of the upper and lower teeth in one shot. This common type of x-ray is effective in detecting decay between your teeth and monitoring the condition of your jawbone. Bite wing x-rays are also useful for evaluating the integrity of existing dental restorations, such as fillings or crowns.
Periapical X-Rays
Periapical x-rays take an image of the entire tooth from top to bottom including the root structure. This type of x-ray can help detect an infection or abscess in or around a tooth, and can detect bone loss in the jaw.
Panoramic X-Rays
Panoramic x-rays are captured using a machine that rotates around your head, providing a comprehensive image of your entire mouth. This type of x-ray is commonly used to monitor the development of wisdom teeth or to plan for procedures like dental implants, offering a broad view of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures.
Panoramic X-Rays
Panoramic x-rays are captured using a machine that rotates around your head, providing a comprehensive image of your entire mouth. This type of x-ray is commonly used to monitor the development of wisdom teeth or to plan for procedures like dental implants, offering a broad view of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures.
