Why Digital X-Rays are Essential for Early Detection
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 by 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional 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!
Choosing the Best Digital X-Rays for Personalized Dental Care
There are three main types of dental X-rays: bitewing X-rays, panoramic X-rays, and cephalometric X-rays. The need for any of these will depend on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist 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.
Even though digital X-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, dentists 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 lead apron shields to protect the body.
Hastings Dental Clinic
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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 upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of 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.
Invisibly Important: Digital X-Rays at Hastings Dental
Hastings Dental provides digital dental x-rays as part of our commitment to your oral health. These safe and painless x-rays allow our dentists to examine beneath the surface of your teeth and jaw, enabling them to diagnose issues early and recommend the best course of treatment.
