Digital Imaging

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 can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Why Digital?

• Environmentally friendly
• No more film, chemicals, or disposal fees
• Instant images allow significant time savings

• Less waiting time
• Shorter appointments
• More comfortable procedure
• Reduced exposure to radiation
• Involved in co-diagnosis
• Better understanding of treatment

Are dental x-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.

Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe. Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each x-ray.

How often should dental x-rays be taken

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.

A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.