Digital X-Rays (Radiographs)
Digital radiography (digital X-rays) is the latest dental technology for dental X-rays. This type of x-rays uses an electronic sensor (instead of traditional X-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a laptop computer in the operatory.
This digital image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping Dr. Perrone and your dental hygienist detect problems easily and quickly. Digital X-rays reduce radiation by approximately 80-90% compared to traditional dental radiographs.
Dental X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool that provides valuable information not visible to the human eye. Dr. Perrone and staff use this digital information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental and oral abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.
Problem areas can go undetected without X-rays and cause more significant issues over time.
Dental X-rays may reveal the following:
- Dental Abscesses or cysts.
- Loss Of Bone.
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
- Tooth decay is present between teeth.
- Abnormal development.
- Poor tooth and root positions.
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
Detecting and treating dental issues early can save you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort, to help preserve your smile.
How often should dental
X-rays be taken?
The need for dental X-rays depends on an individual patient’s dental health needs. Dr. Perrone and your dental hygienist will recommend necessary X-rays based on your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, age, and disease risk.
An entire mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients. An entire series is usually good for three to five years.
Bite-wing X-rays (of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) appointments and recommended once or twice a year to detect any new developing dental issues.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Natural radiation exposure is a daily occurrence in our environment. Digital X-rays produce a significantly lower radiation level than traditional dental radiographs.
Not only are digital X-rays better for your health and safety, but they are also faster and more comfortable, which reduces your time in the dental chair.
Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop X-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.
Even though digital X-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, Dr. Perrone still takes necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation.
These precautions include only taking necessary X-rays and using lead apron body and neck shields for protection.