Digital Radiography
One of the many tools used by dentists and orthodontists to evaluate a patient’s oral health is the use of digital radiographs or x-rays, which are basically images of your teeth. In order to capture images of your teeth and gums, these radiographs make use of low-intensity radiation to capture images of the interior of your oral cavity, that is, your gums and teeth. An assessment of these x-rays helps our professionals at Dr. Amy James and Associates Orthodontists to detect oral health problems such as tooth decay and cavities. Digital x-rays are also helpful to see what is going on inside your mouth before you receive braces, Invisalign, or any other orthodontic treatment. While digital radiography might seem overly technical, in reality it is a very common tool that is just as vital as getting your teeth cleaned. Radiography may also be needed for an intricate procedure that requires our specialists to review your oral bone structure.
Why Is it Performed?
X-rays are of great help for all dental professionals. They not only allow us to have a look at the condition of your teeth and the placement of your jaw, but also enable us to detect as well as treat oral problems in their early stages. This not only helps you to save money but also to avoid discomfort, especially if the problem is left untreated for too long. Most importantly, dental radiographs can help with identifying problems that cannot be detected by conducting a dental exam.
Risks of Digital Radiography
Although x-rays make use of radiation, the intensity of the radiation is so low that it does not harm children, let alone adults. An important point to be noted is that our professionals use digital x-rays, unlike some other dental platforms that develop them on film. By doing this, our patients’ risks from exposure to radiation are cut down considerably. Moreover, we also cover our patients’ pelvic region, chest, and abdomen with a lead bib so as to prevent their vital organs from getting exposed to any radiation. If you are pregnant, please alert our team; the risks to a fetus from digital radiography are low, and our team of professionals is ready to discuss your radiography options.
Preparing for the Process
No special preparations are required for digital radiography. However, you will want to brush your teeth before you have a dental x-ray, as this will make the job of working inside your mouth more hygienic for those doing it. X-rays are normally conducted before cleanings. At our office, you will be seated on a chair, with a lead bib spread across your chest and lap. Images of your teeth, gums, and roots will be captured by an x-ray machine that is placed alongside your head.
Outlook
Just like brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is crucial for your oral health, so is getting dental x-rays done. If you have gotten a good check-up once, this should not stop you from getting routine x-rays. X-rays can be performed every one to two years, but that depends on your age, health, and the coverage of your insurance. If you are worried about your dental health, or if you are preparing for orthodontic work, do not hesitate to call (856) 216-8009 and book an appointment at Dr. Amy James and Associates Orthodontists to get rid of any anxieties and improve your lifestyle.
