Digital X-Rays

Digital X-rays have been used for many years to help dentists examine and evaluate their patient’s teeth and mouth. With an x-ray your dentist can locate cavities, pinpoint bone loss, and diagnose many oral health issues. Traditional x-rays must be developed and sometimes do not give a clear picture of the teeth or area of the mouth being examined. Today your dentist has another option known as digital x-rays. Digital x-rays give a clearer picture in less time than traditional x-rays so that your dentist can help you have the best smile possible.

Types of X-Rays

Dental x-rays fall into two categories: intraoral and extraoral. With intraoral the x-ray film is placed inside of the mouth. If you’ve ever had to bite down on an x-ray film you have had an intraoral x-ray. Intraoral x-rays give your dentist very good images of your teeth and jaw. They are used to spot cavities and periodontal disease. Extraoral x-rays are images taken from the outside of your mouth and generally focus on the skull and jawbone. There are several views, or angles, your dentist may use to take images either from inside your mouth or externally. Both types of x-rays are effective at detecting damage and decay your dentist can’t see during a regular exam.

Benefits of Digital X-Rays

One of the drawbacks of traditional x-rays is the fact they must be developed in a dark room before your dentist can view them. With digital x-rays you are exposed to approximately 80% less radiation and the images are available right away on a computer screen. Your dentist can view the digital x-rays while sitting next to you in the exam and treatment room. The images can be stored, printed out, or sent to a specialist for referral and consultation.

The digital images can also be enlarged and enhanced. For example Dr. Buckingham can enlarge the image of your tooth and see exactly what it looks like and spot any tooth decay or damage easily and quickly. Images can also be compared to previous visits to see if there are any changes in the tooth, gum, or jaw.

Today’s dentistry has come a long way in the last decade and digital x-rays are just one example. With digital x-rays Dr. Buckingham has almost immediate access to the images and can diagnose and identify any problems that may be present.

Call or contact us today if you have any questions about digital x-rays. At Buckingham Dental we have the latest technology and want to you to have the best smile possible. We serve the entire Austin area and look forward to hearing from you soon!