The Benefits of Digital X-Rays

Digital radiographs (X-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam.  One of the most significant advantages of utilizing digital x-rays is reduction of radiation exposure. Digital radiographs also eliminate the use of film and required chemicals for processing, making the overall procedure much less harmful to the environment. The larger computer screen used to display digital radiographs allows Dr. Shay to view any problems or irregularities with added clarity. Dr. Shay uses this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.  Without X-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Why Use Digital X-Rays?

Here are some of the main conditions that digital x-rays can better expose:   

• 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!

How Are Digital X-Rays Taken?      

The technique for capturing digital x-rays is similar to that of the traditional-style x-rays but the digital variety uses a small electronic sensor to capture intraoral images, as opposed to film bitewings.

Generally, a full mouth series of digital x-rays includes eighteen different views of the teeth and underlying jawbone. The two standard views dentists use are: periapical and bitewing. The periapical view is used to inspect the root tips for decay, disease or damage, while the bitewing view allows for close inspection and measurement of the mandible and maxilla (upper and lower jawbones). 

After exposure, the digital image is either transferred wirelessly to a computer right away. Processing traditional film can take up to five minutes, but a digital image takes mere seconds. Once the image is apparent on the screen, the contrast, color and brightness can be altered to produce a much clearer image. Dentists can also copy or print digital x-rays with ease. This allows for effective comparison of new results to previous images and insight on how treatments have impacted dental conditions. If the dentist refers the patient to a specialist, digital radiographs can be transmitted via computer – eliminating the need for a second set of x-rays in most cases.

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.  Dr. Shay takes necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental X-rays.  

How Often Should Dental X-Rays Be Taken?

The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Dr. Shay and the 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.

If you have questions or concerns about getting digital x-rays, please contact our office.