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.

 

Digital X-rays have many advantages over traditional film based systems:

1. Digital radiographs are more sensitive than traditional style X-rays, therefore they require a lower amount of radiation exposure for the patient.

 

2. Digital radiographs are much quicker than processing traditional films.  After the radiograph is taken, it immediately appears on the computer monitor for viewing and interpretation.

 

3.  Digital radiographs allow for easier and clearer communication between dentists, insurance companies and patients.  The images can be emailed, magnified, and highlighted.

 

4.  Digital radiographs are friendlier to the environment that film based X-rays.  The chemicals needed to develop film X-rays are no longer needed with the new digital system.  Also, there is less waste associated with digital X-rays.

 

 

Dental x-rays may reveal:

• Abscesses or cysts.

• Bone loss (Indicator of Periodontal Disease).

• 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!

 

 

Are dental x-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. 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 and thyroid collar 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?

Our office policy is to take radiographs (x-rays) as needed. It is determined by the patient’s individual dental health needs.  Dr. Vanda Georgescu and your 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.

 

All new patients must have a recent full mouth series (approximately 18 individual films) of dental x-rays, which is usually good about 5 years. Decay detecting radiographs- bitewings- (4 films) are usually taken once a year in order to detect bone loss and decay between the posterior teeth since this is not detected with visual exams.