In our dental clinic, digital x-rays have replaced traditional x-ray films. In addition to making it easier to store images in patient records, this new technology also comes with other benefits:
Digital X-Rays 2D and 3D
- 90% reduction in exposure to radiation (as opposed to traditional x-rays).
- Immediate results – meaning less waiting time for you.
- More eco-friendly, thanks to the elimination of toxic solutions used to process traditional x-ray films.
- Quicker transfer of images, as x-rays can be sent by email to insurance companies, dentists and other medical professionals.
- The digital images are processed by computer to improve the contrast and luminosity. This allows improved controls and often prevents taking additional x-rays when images are not clear enough.
Types of Dental X-Rays
Periapical x-rays show a group of upper or lower teeth so as to better examine the root, crown and supporting bone structure of the teeth.
Interproximal x-rays, also known as bitewings, show the crowns of the upper and lower teeth; it helps the dentist to detect cavities between the teeth at the back of your mouth and evaluate the level of the supporting bone structure.
Panoramic x-rays (Panorex) show all the teeth in a single image as well as the surrounding structures: maxillary, mandible, sinus and temporomandibular joint. It is the type of radiography used to examine the position and eruption of wisdom teeth and plan their extraction if required. Panoramic x-rays also facilitates the detection of dentigerous cysts and certain types of benign tumors such as ameloblastoma.
The cephalogram is an x-ray of the skull and jaws. It is mainly used in orthodontics to evaluate bone growth and teeth development.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is the most advanced type of dental x-rays and is available in very few clinics. The image produced is in 3 dimensions. In the above example, it is used in the precise planning of implant placement.
To learn more, visit the Ordre des Dentistes du Québec website about dental x-rays