X-rays

X-rays

Detection of Oral Health Problems

At Children's Dentistry, we have invested in advanced technology to make diagnosing and treating oral health problems as efficient as possible. One diagnostic method we employ regularly is low radiation digital X-rays to help us detect problems with tooth decay, tooth eruption, tumors, jawbone issues, or facial bone structure.

dental xrays

Instant Results with Digital X-Rays

Digital X-rays are performed by taking pictures of your mouth using a digital sensor that is connected to a computer. The images are sent to a computer and saved in your electronic chart, allowing Dr. Donald to view your child's X-rays right away, unlike with traditional X-rays that need time to develop. Not only will your dental appointments be shorter with this method of radiography, but digital X-rays are easily transferable, allowing Dr. Donald to show them to you on a chairside monitor to explain your diagnosis, or send them to dental specialists and your insurance company if necessary.

Safer Diagnostics

Since X-rays expose children to radiation, many parents are worried about the risk of conditions like cancer. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry reassures parents that the amount of radiation that's received during a dental X-ray is extremely small. The amount of radiation produced by digital X-rays is roughly 90% less than with traditional radiography, resulting in a safer treatment area for both our patients and our staff members. Digital X-rays are also eco friendly and better for the environment, as they do not require harmful chemicals for development like conventional X-rays. Also today's X-ray equipment lets dentists focus the X-ray beam on the area of interest to reduce radiation exposure. Protective equipment like lead body aprons and shields also keep your child safe during their procedure.

Types of X-Rays

Depending on the image the dentist is looking for, he or she may order different types of X-rays. Here are a few types:

  • Bitewing X-Rays are used to look at the crowns of the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth, like the molars and premolars. Bitewing X-rays are used to look for cavities between the teeth that are hard to see otherwise. They can also be used to monitor previous fillings for wear.
  • Periapical X-rays are zoomed in on, and they display the whole tooth from the crown to the root. These X-rays can be used to look for problems with the tooth's root or the surrounding jaw bone as well as cavities.
dental xrays
  • Panoramic X-rays show your child's whole mouth in one X-ray, so all the teeth on the upper and lower jaws will be visible. Panoramic X-rays can be used to monitor your child's tooth development or to see if he or she needs orthodontics. These X-rays can also be used to see emerging teeth, impacted teeth, or tumors.
  • Occlusal X-rays show the entire arch of teeth in either the top or bottom jaw. These X-rays can be used to see the placement of all your child's teeth and to see how the teeth fit together when your child bites down.
  • Orthodontic X-rays Also called cephalometric projections, these X-rays show the entire side of your child's head. Since the teeth are visible in the same image as the jaw and head, these images are useful for planning orthodontic treatments.
  • Cone Beam Computerized Tomography X-rays are different from the previously mentioned types in that they provide a 3-D view of your child's mouth. A 3-D view is useful when the dentist needs to gauge the space and development of your child's teeth.

Learn More About the Benefits of Digital X-Rays

Find out more about the benefits of digital X-rays and our other dental technology by scheduling a consultation. Call Children's Dentitry of Longwood today at (321) 295-7893. Conveniently located off I4 in Longwood, FL. Our office also welcomes patients who live in Lake Mary, Heathrow, Casselberry, Winter Springs, Altamonte Springs , the and greater Orlando area.