Digital X-Rays
For an extended period, x-rays has played a crucial role in diagnosing oral health issues and identifying compromised or deteriorating teeth. These imaging techniques offer a distinct perspective of the oral cavity, supplementing visual examinations. During the imaging process, the teeth and bones primarily absorb the rays, rendering them prominently visible on either film or a screen.
Virtually all new dental patients undergo imaging, although there is an option to request the transfer of previous imaging records from a prior dental provider to the new dentist.
Through a comprehensive analysis of these images, along with a thorough examination of your entire mouth and consideration of your dental history, Dr. Zeitlin can prescribe effective treatments and propose a preventive care strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get dental x-rays?
Yes. Digital imaging plays a crucial role in identifying tooth decay and underlying damage, especially in areas less visible during a regular examination. These images also serve as a reference for tracking the progression of decay in your mouth over time. Regular imaging is recommended, with a particular emphasis if you’re facing oral health issues or preparing for a dental procedure like a root canal.
What should I expect when I get dental x-rays?
Traditional dental imaging procedures can take several minutes, involving the placement of a thick paper tab in your mouth, which you’ll need to bite down on. However, digital imaging has streamlined this process. Many patients find digital imaging to be painless and cause minimal discomfort. Dentists may employ both intraoral techniques and those capturing images of the face, jaw, and skull. The latter are commonly utilized to detect impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth.
What happens after my dentist has taken x-rays?
When we are done with examining your x-rays, we will either save them digitally or on film. It’s possible your dentist may request new x-rays to be taken in the future to see the changes in your mouth every few years. This includes not just your teeth but also your gums and jaw as time progresses. If you’re deemed high risk for disease or have symptoms, then it’s likely your dentist will want you to have x-rays performed more frequently.