Digital X-Rays 2D and 3D

Radiographie numérique 2D et 3D

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:

  • 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

radiographie périapicale

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.

radiographie interproximale

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.

radiographie panoramique

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.

céphalogramme

The cephalogram is an x-ray of the skull and jaws. It is mainly used in orthodontics to evaluate bone growth and teeth development.

tomographies volumiques à faisceau conique

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