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Technology

Digital X-Rays

Dental radiographs (X-rays) can provide essential information about oral health. They are an important part of a patient’s dental record. Our office uses computers to help capture, store and transmit dental radiographs.

Dental radiographs produced with a special computer create digital images (computerized dental radiographs) that can be displayed and enhanced on the computer monitor.

Creating Digital Radiographs

Digital imaging involves the use of a radiograph machine like that used to create dental radiographs made with film. But instead of using film in a plastic holder, we make digital images using a small electronic sensor or image receptor that is placed in the mouth to capture the image. At our office, we have two different sizes of intra-oral sensors to make you more comfortable. The x-ray sensor is small computer about the size of a domino that is placed in your mouth in the area to be examined.

When the digital radiograph is exposed, the image is transmitted to a computer processor. Unlike conventional film that may take between three and five minutes to process, a digital radiographic image generally can be viewed quickly on the computer screen. The image is displayed in a large format on the screen, in comparison with the small films that are viewed on a light box. With digital radiographic images, technical errors often can be corrected to provide an optimal radiograph without having to make another exposure. We can use magnification to enhance specific problem areas of a tooth, as well as alter brightness and contrast in the image. Viewing an enhanced dental radiograph on a computer screen can help us better see a problem area.

Digital radiographs eliminate the need for film and film processing chemicals that generate waste, so they are better for the environment.

Are Dental Radiographs Safe?

Dental radiographic examinations require exposure to very low levels of radiation (up to 90% less radiation), which makes the risk of potentially harmful effects extremely small.

Many diseases of the oral cavity (which includes the teeth, surrounding tissues and bone) cannot be seen when the dentist examines a patient’s mouth. A radiographic examination may help Dr. Melissa see:

• small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations (fillings);
• bone destruction from a tooth infection (for example, an abscess) or a cyst;
• bone loss due to periodontal (gum) disease;
• developmental abnormalities;
• some types of tumors;
• the effects of trauma;
• the position of unerupted teeth in children and adults.

We also have a digital Panorex machine. A Panorex X-ray is a type of x-ray that gives us a broader view of all of the teeth and surrounding bone. It is very helpful to check the position of wisdom teeth and the roots of the teeth. This X-ray is helpful in finding impacted teeth and for the diagnosis and treatment with orthodontics. We can even take Panorex X-rays in patients with NO teeth to check the health of the jaw bone. Occasionally, we find tumors and other abnormalities with these radiographs.

Digital X-rays help in the diagnosis of cavities, periodontal disease and many other conditions. They illustrate the bone height, bone defects, infection, root involvement, tarter and decay. Digital x-rays are also beneficial in determining if dental disease is progressing or if it is arrested. Dr. Melissa’s digital radiographic system allows for quick onscreen reference to facilitate your understanding of any areas of concern.

How Do Dental X-Rays Work?

As X-rays pass through your mouth they are mostly absorbed by teeth and bone because these tissues, which are called hard tissues, are denser than cheeks and gums, which are called soft tissues. When X-rays strike the film or a digital sensor, an image called a radiograph is created. Radiographs allow Dr. Melissa to see hidden abnormalities, like tooth decay, infections and signs of gum disease, including changes in the bone and ligaments holding teeth in place.

How Often Should Radiographs Be Taken?

How often X-rays (radiographs) should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease you may be experiencing. For example, children may require X-rays more often than adults. This is because their teeth and jaws are still developing. Also their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults. Dr. Melissa will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether or not you need radiographs.

If you are a new patient, we may recommend radiographs to determine the present status of your oral health and to help identify changes that may occur later. A new set of X-rays may be needed to help Dr. Melissa detect any new cavities, determine the status of your gum health or evaluate the growth and development of your teeth. If a previous dentist has any radiographs of you, we may ask you for copies of them.