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Advanced Dental Technologies
Digital X-Ray
Dental radiographs, commonly known as X-rays, are images of teeth, bones, and surrounding soft tissues used to screen for and help identify problems with the teeth, mouth, and jaw. X-ray imaging can show cavities, cancerous or benign masses, hidden dental structures (such as wisdom teeth), and bone loss that cannot be seen during a visual examination. Dental X-rays may also be done as follow-up after certain dental treatments.
The computer era has brought us a dental technology called digital radiagraphy. With this technology we use computerized equipment and software to capture xray images of your mouth and teeth by exposing a small sensor or plate that feeds the image into a computer. Digital X-ray has many advantages over traditional film xrays. Its faster, safer, and the images can be enhanced and electronically stored and retrieved. Taking digital x-rays is faster because the sensor is merely moved from tooth to tooth and your x-ray can be seen on a computer monitor just moments after exposure. There is no waiting for chemical development as with traditional film x-rays. The lack of chemicals also makes digital x-ray safer for the environment. Digital x-ray is safe for you too, the unit is so sensitive, the amount of x-ray radiation you are exposed to is up to 90% less than with conventional x-rays. Digital x-ray technology enables more efficient diagnosis and treatment because it provides a large, easy to see image and allows us to make ajustments and see more details than with traditional x-ray images. The digital x-rays can then become part of your digital dental records and be easily emailed to specialists and insurance companies. With digital radiagraphy we can offer you faster and safer diagnosis and dental treatment.
How much radiation will I be exposed to?
The dosage of X-ray radiation received by a dental patient is typically small, equivalent to a few days worth of background radiation environmental radiation exposure, or similar to the dose received during a cross-country airplane flight. Incidental exposure is further reduced by the use of a lead shield, lead apron, and sometimes a lead thyroid collar. Technician exposure is reduced by stepping out of the room or behind adequate shielding material when the X-ray source is activated. Since digital X-ray units are so sensitive, the amount of radiation used is up to 90% less than with conventional film X-rays.
Do I need to have x-rays taken?
Radiographic evaluation of the dental and periodontal tissues is a critical segment of the comprehensive oral examination. It is possible for tooth decay or periodontal disease to be missed during a clinical exam, but to be seen in a digital X-ray.