Digital dental x-rays in Petaluma, CA
At North Bay Smiles, keeping your smile healthy and disease-free is our top priority. This includes examining your mouth on a regular basis to ensure that there are no issues that need to be addressed. While some oral health problems are visible to the naked eye, the mouth is a complex structure that consists of several components that can only be seen through imaging technologies such as x-rays. We use digital dental x-rays for preventive and diagnostic purposes to help keep smiles healthy in the Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Santa Rosa, Novato, and surrounding CA communities.
Why dental x-rays are important
Your mouth consists of several structures that are not possible to see with a simple visual examination. Dental x-rays enable Dr. Szyperski to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth so she can detect and diagnose issues such as:
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Decay beneath existing dental restorations
- Bone loss
- Changes in the root canal or bone due to bacterial infection
- Abscesses
- Cysts
In addition, dental x-rays can be used to determine how a child’s mouth is growing, whether new teeth are coming in and if there is sufficient room for them, and to plan out future dental treatments.
There are several different types of dental x-rays. Among the most used are panoramic x-rays, which are full mouth x-rays that show both the upper and lower jaws in one picture. Bitewing x-rays are also very commonly used to show the details of the teeth in one specific location of the mouth.
Benefits of digital x-rays
Dr. Szyperski has equipped her dental office with the latest digital x-ray technology. Digital x-rays have many benefits:
- They provide more detailed images of the teeth and bone
- The images can be enlarged to get a better view of areas of concern
- They use 80 to 90 percent less radiation compared to the already low amount of radiation of traditional dental x-rays
- They are easily stored on a computer and can be shown to you chairside to help you see what is happening in your mouth
Digital Dental X-rays FAQs
What can dental X-rays help detect?
A dental X-ray is a diagnostic tool that allows the dentist to visualize issues beneath the surface. It involves using a small, safe amount of radiation to capture detailed images of the teeth, roots, jawbone, and surrounding structures. The images are produced in real time on a chairside screen, allowing the dentist to:
- Detect tooth decay between teeth or under fillings
- Identify infections or abscesses at the root of a tooth
- Monitor bone loss from gum disease
- Check the development of wisdom teeth or the alignment of the jaw
- Track developmental issues
Since these issues aren’t visible to the naked eye, they can go undetected in a visual exam. Dental X-rays help the dentist gain a complete picture of your oral health, leaving nothing to chance.
When do I need dental X-rays?
Where would dentistry be without dental X-rays? This advanced imaging technology is a valuable tool in dentistry, allowing us to eliminate guesswork and address issues with precision.
Here are common instances when X-rays are needed:
- Diagnostics: Dental X-rays detect dental issues even before symptoms manifest. We use X-rays as part of your dental exam to spot interdental cavities, impacted teeth, and other hidden problems. Finding issues early allows for simpler, non-invasive treatment.
- Treatment planning: X-rays are a vital tool for planning extractions, orthodontics, dental crowns, fillings, etc., with unmatched precision.
- First-time patients: All new patients need X-rays to develop a baseline to track future changes in their oral health.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your age, oral health, and dental history. For most patients, X-rays are recommended once a year to monitor any changes or detect issues early. However, if you’re at higher risk for cavities, gum disease, or have ongoing treatment, your dentist may suggest more frequent imaging. Children may also need X-rays more often to track their development.
Are X-rays safe?
One of the main concerns about dental X-rays is radiation exposure, primarily since traditional film X-rays emitted levels now considered excessive by modern standards. However, modern X-rays are incredibly safe. They emit up to 90% less radiation than conventional X-rays. The amount of radiation you’re exposed to is similar to what you’d naturally get from a short flight. To further protect you, we use lead aprons and collars during the procedure to minimize unnecessary exposure.
What are the benefits of dental X-rays?
Compared to traditional X-rays, digital radiography offers several benefits, including:
- Low radiation exposure
- Images are captured in seconds
- High image quality allows for more precise diagnosis and treatment
- Eco-friendly—no chemicals or film processing required
- Easily stored and shared—digital files can be saved, enlarged, and sent to stakeholders if needed
- Instant results—your dentist can review and explain findings immediately
I need dental X-rays in Petaluma, California—what’s next?
Contact North Bay Smiles at (707) 306-8001 if you’re in Petaluma and need dental X-rays. Our team uses advanced digital X-ray technology to ensure safe, precise imaging with minimal radiation exposure.
To schedule an appointment for you or a member of your family, call North Bay Smiles in Petaluma, CA today! (707) 306-8001
