An intraoral x-ray is a panoramic x-ray that focuses on the inside of a patient’s mouth. This type of x-ray is used to detect tooth decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. But an intraoral x-ray is different from other dental x-rays because it uses sensors to expose only one side of a patient’s mouth at a time.
Safety with digital x-rays
Digital x-rays, or digital radiographs, use a digital image of your mouth instead of film. This image is viewed on a screen and can be enhanced, modified, and manipulated for a clearer image than an x-ray on film. This also means that digital x-rays can be quickly sent and viewed by other dentists.
Digital x-rays require only a small amount of radiation exposure, making it safer for patients who are concerned about radiation exposure.
Digital x-ray technology explained
The x-ray images produced with digital x-ray technology are more detailed than those produced with film-based x-ray technology. Digital x-rays are also safer for our patients because we don’t have to use harsh chemicals to develop the film as we did in the past. Digital x-rays are also faster, more comfortable, and more convenient for our patients.
Digital x-rays are one of the most valuable diagnostic tools we have. They’re fast and give us accurate, detailed, and absolutely safe images.
Digital x-rays and dental treatments
With digital x-rays, we can take an image with a very small dose of radiation, instantly view it, and send it along to our dental team. This allows our team to see potential problems with your teeth sooner and plan any necessary treatment. Digital x-rays are more comfortable because they are taken using sensors rather than traditional film. They also emit up to 90% less radiation than traditional dental x-rays.
We use digital x-rays to determine the size and extent of cavities, hidden dormant cavities, cracked and fractured teeth, root canal infection, etc. In children, we may also use them to check the loss of baby teeth and the eruption of permanent teeth, check for malocclusion, etc. They are also predominantly used to check for damaged teeth or jawbones in case of severe trauma to the face or jaws. Dental x-rays are a vital tool in diagnosing dental conditions, including gum disease and oral cancer.
To find out more about the dental services offered at our dental practice by Dr. Lindbeck, call (760)-747-3988 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist Escondido, CA at 661 E Grand Ave, Escondido 92025.