What Are Digital Dental X-Rays?
Traditional x-rays are captured on film and developed in a dark room. With digital imaging, the x-ray is captured by a sensor and sent directly to a computer, where it can be viewed on screen, stored or printed. Our office also has a digital panoramic x-ray machine, which gives a wide view of the teeth and jaws in a single image.
Benefits of Digital X-Rays
- Less radiation: The technique uses less radiation than a typical film x-ray.
- Instant images: There is no wait for film to develop. Images appear on screen a few seconds after they are taken.
- A clearer picture: Your dentist can enlarge and enhance an image many times its actual size, which makes it easier to show you where a problem is and explain it.
- Easy sharing: If needed, images can be sent electronically to another dentist or specialist for a second opinion, or to a new dentist if you move.
- Spotting small changes: Special software can compare current images with earlier ones. This process, called subtraction radiography, removes everything that is the same between two images and leaves a clear view of only what has changed. It helps dentists see tiny changes that may not be noticed by eye.
What X-Rays Help Us Find
X-rays are an important part of preventive dentistry. They can detect:
- Cavities, including between teeth and under existing fillings
- Bone infections and other diseases that are hard to see
- Some tumours
- Changes in the bone that supports your teeth, which helps in checking for gum disease
- Impacted or developing teeth, such as wisdom teeth
They also help us plan treatments such as dental implants, root canal treatment and crowns and bridges.
How Often Do You Need X-Rays?
How often you need x-rays depends on your age, your oral health and your history. Your dentist will recommend x-rays only when they are useful for your care, and will explain why. New patients often have x-rays so we can build a complete picture of their oral health. Children may have x-rays to check development and look for cavities in areas we cannot see.
Before Your Visit
- Let us know if you are or may be pregnant, so your dentist can decide what is appropriate.
- Bring any recent x-rays from a previous dentist if you have them, or tell us who your previous dentist was.
- Remove any jewellery or items that could get in the way, such as necklaces or earrings, if asked.
- Tell us if you have a strong gag reflex or feel anxious. We can help make the process easier.
After Your Visit
- Digital x-rays do not require any recovery. You can go on with your day.
- Your dentist will go over the images with you and explain what they show.
- If treatment is recommended, we will explain your options and give you a free estimate.
- Call us if you have any questions about your images or treatment plan.
Costs, Insurance and Payment
Many insurance plans cover dental x-rays. We bill all major insurance plans and government plans directly, and we follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. If you are not covered, instant financing with monthly payment plans is available. Ask us for a free cost estimate before treatment.
Why Choose Heritage Valley Dental?
- Digital imaging with images available on screen in seconds
- A dentist who explains what the images show in plain language
- Open seven days a week, with weeknights until 8:00 pm
- Gentle care for patients of all ages, including those who feel nervous
- A clean, calm office with careful sterilization protocols
