Digital X-Rays
Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional film-based dental x-rays.
Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
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Abscesses or cysts.
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Bone loss.
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Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
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Decay between the teeth.
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Developmental abnormalities.
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Poor tooth and root positions.
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Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment everyday. Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays. Digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient. They are faster to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.
Even though digital x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, we still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation. These precautions include only taking those x-rays that are necessary, and using protective apron shields when possible to protect the body.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. We will recommend necessary x-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.
For new patients, we generally get a DIGITAL PAN (Panoramic Radiograph - shows entire upper and lower dental arches) and four DIGITAL BWX (Bite-Wing X-rays - x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) during the initial exam procedure. The panoramic image is usually retaken at 5 year intervals and the BWX on a yearly basis. However, xrays may be taken at more or less frequent intervals based on the individual patient's dental health status and restorative progress.
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