Dental x-rays provide the dental team with valuable diagnostic information which may not be visible clinically during an exam. X-rays are used to detect areas of decay and bone loss as well as any other pathology that may be present. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Digital X-rays utilize an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays also reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional film dental x-rays.
CBCT or Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scan:
A type of dental image that generates a 3-D image of dental structures such as soft tissues, nerve paths and bone in a single scan. Images obtained with cone beam CT are often used for treatment planning dental implants as well as many other dental procedures.
Panelipse X-ray (Pano):
This is a 2 dimensional image that captures all of your teeth as well as the top and bottom jawbones, which support the teeth. This type of image is often utilized for diagnosing impacted teeth, jaw fractures, as well as other potential pathology.