Our office chooses carefully which and when radiographs are taken. There are many guidelines that we follow. Radiographs allow us to see everything we cannot see with our own eyes. Radiographs enable us to detect cavities in between your teeth, determine bone level, and health of bone. We can also examine the roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors, as well as assess damage when trauma occurs.
Dental radiographs are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. Exposure time for dental radiographs is extremely minimal. With digital imaging, exposure time is about 70 percent less when compared to traditional radiographs. Digital imaging can also help us retrieve valuable diagnostic information. We may be able to see cavities better because the image is on our computer screen and we can utilize software that enhances the ability to see problems.
The advantages of digital imaging enables us to not only store patient images, but also enables us to quickly transfer them to appropriate specialists or insurance companies.
Digital X-Rays – Digital Panoramic X-rays – 3D Cone Beam
Digital x-rays offer more precision since we view the image on a computer monitor, instead of holding up a 35mm film up to the light. Digital x-rays result in one-sixth the radiation exposure to you.
We also use Digital full mouth radiographs (panorex) that show us the full mouth in one large format. Again the advantages are numerous including way less exposure and the ability to alter the picture for better resolution.
Our latest use of digital technology with imaging is Cone beam technology. Think of this as similar to a CAT Scan without the high radiation. This allows us to now look at the mouth with 3 dimensional capabilities to really see what is occurring in the mouth. We mostly use this for 3rd molar locations and for determining if we can place implants. This is very exciting technology.
