Digital radiography uses an electronic sensor instead of traditional X-ray film to capture X-ray images that are stored on a computer. These low dose digital X-rays have a number of advantages:

• Reduces radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional dental X-rays.

• Images can be instantly viewed and enlarged.

• Does not require film processing, thereby eliminating the need to dispose of harmful waste products and chemicals into the environment.

 

Why are X-rays Necessary?
They are used as a preventative, diagnostic tool. They reveal valuable information not otherwise visible during a regular dental exam. They enable us to look at what is going on between teeth and under the gum, then use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and create an accurate treatment plan. Without X-rays, such problem areas may go undetected.

Among other things, dental X-rays may reveal:

• Abscesses or cysts

• Bone loss

• Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors

• Decay between the teeth

• Developmental abnormalities

• Poor tooth and root positions

• 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!

 

What are the types of X-rays?

 

Intraoral X-rays (meaning the X-ray film is inside the mouth)

• Bite-wing X-rays show details of the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth. Each bite-wing shows a tooth from its crown to about the level of the supporting bone. Bite-wing X-rays are used to detect decay between teeth and changes in bone density caused by gum disease. They are also useful in determining the proper fit of a crown and the marginal integrity of fillings.

• Periapical X-rays show the whole tooth; from the crown to beyond the end of the root to where the tooth is anchored in the jaw. Each periapical X-ray shows this full tooth dimension and includes all the teeth in one portion of either the upper or lower jaw. Periapical X-rays are used to detect any abnormalities of the root structure and surrounding bone structure.

 

Extraoral X-rays (meaning the film is outside the mouth)

• Panoramic X-rays show the entire mouth area; all the teeth in both the upper and lower jaws on a single X-ray. This type of X-ray is useful for detecting the position of fully emerged as well as emerging teeth, can identify impacted teeth, and aid in the diagnosis of tumors.