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 more easily. 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:
- 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 gumline
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays. Not only are digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, but they are also faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the 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, 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.
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.
What Digital X-Rays Mean For Our Patients
At South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL, digital x-ray technology is one of the most meaningful investments we have made in delivering better, more accurate care for our patients. When a digital image is captured and displayed chairside within seconds, our doctor can walk you through exactly what they are seeing in real time, pointing out areas of concern and explaining findings in plain, straightforward language before any treatment discussion begins. That kind of immediate, visual communication reflects the friendly and honest approach that has defined South Suburban Family Dental since 1983.
For new patients, digital x-rays provide a fast and comprehensive first look at the full picture of your oral health, allowing our team to develop an accurate, personalized treatment plan from the very first visit. For long-term patients, the ability to store and compare digital images over multiple years means our team can track changes in bone levels, identify developing concerns earlier, and make more informed recommendations based on a clear visual record of how your oral health has changed over time.
Digital imaging is also simply more comfortable than traditional x-rays. The electronic sensors used in digital radiography are smaller and easier to position than traditional film, and the elimination of the development process means less time in the chair and a faster, more efficient appointment experience overall. At South Suburban Family Dental, providing technology that makes your care more precise and your visit more comfortable is part of what reliable, community-rooted dentistry looks like in Blue Island, IL.