X-rays, or radiographs, have long been used in dentistry. Traditional film x-rays are a safe and effective part of your dental care, but they require a small amount of radiation. In our office, we utilize digital x-ray technology that provides the benefits of film imaging but uses up to 80% less radiation. Our advanced digital radiographs can view your teeth and surrounding structures with remarkable accuracy.
Unlike traditional x-rays, digital x-rays require no wait time for the film to develop. Instead, the images are available on the computer screen within seconds. These images can then be enhanced and enlarged for a more accurate diagnosis. Digital x-rays can be stored, printed, or transmitted electronically to a specialist or laboratory.
Intraoral x-rays create an image of the teeth, bone, and tissues inside the mouth. Depending on the need, this image can be used for prevention, diagnosis, and/or treatment planning. X-ray images can be used to identify or diagnose potential oral health issues that may not be fully visible to the naked eye. Some of these may include:
- Tooth decay
- Cracks or fractures
- Impacted teeth
- Tooth root infection
- Bone loss
- Cysts, tumors, or other abnormal growths
How often you need dental x-rays will change over your lifetime. Healthy adults may only need radiographs taken every 2-3 years. Children and teens often need more frequent imaging to monitor the growth and alignment of their teeth. However, several additional factors can influence how often digital x-rays are recommended. Some of these include:
- Multiple dental restorations
- Periodontal disease
- Dry mouth
- Tobacco use
- Orthodontics
Root canal therapy
Your safety is our primary concern. Before having a digital x-ray taken in our office, let us know if any of the following apply to you:
- You have had a dental x-ray in another office within the past year
- You are or may be pregnant
- You have any questions or concerns about x-rays
Contact our office for more information on how our digital x-rays benefit you.
1109 S. Park Drive
Reidsville, NC 27320
Phone: (336) 342-0889