Improve Your Dental Experience and Treatment Outcomes with Digital Radiographs
Technology can significantly enhance a patient’s dental experience. That’s why Ballston Dental Care prioritizes investing in safe, minimally invasive innovations. One standout in our range of advanced tools is digital radiography, which has transformed how we diagnose and treat patients. With modern dental X-rays, Dr. David Matney and his team can detect problems earlier, craft finer restorations, and improve the overall patient experience.
When do I need digital x-rays?
Digital x-rays use a small electronic sensor to capture the internal structures of your teeth and jawbone. Dental x-rays allow the dentist to unearth dental problems beyond the naked eye’s reach.
Dental x-rays can better expose the following:
- Bone recession
- Impacted teeth
- Dental infection
- Tumors and cysts
- Tooth positioning
- Developmental issues
- Interproximal cavities
Dental x-rays can be used for preventive care, allowing the dentist to detect and treat oral issues that are yet to show symptoms. Early detection of problems prevents the need for more invasive treatments. Digital x-rays are also instrumental in treatment planning. They provide detailed images of the teeth, gums, and jawbone, which help dentists precisely map out dental implants, root canals, extractions, and orthodontics procedures.
What are the benefits of digital x-rays?
Modern dental x-rays generate minimal radiation, providing a safe solution for diagnostics and treatment planning. Furthermore, digital x-rays offer high-resolution images instantly, allowing for faster diagnosis and more precise treatment planning. The digital format also allows easy storage and sharing of images with patients and other dental professionals, streamlining the process and enhancing patient care. Additionally, digital x-rays are more eco-friendly, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals to process the films.
How often should I have dental x-rays?
It depends on your oral health needs. We recommend dental x-rays every 1-2 years for patients with good oral health. However, if you are at high risk of tooth decay and other health issues, we may recommend dental x-rays every 6-18 months.
Sometimes, you may need non-standard x-rays. For instance, the dentist may require dental x-rays to diagnose your symptoms or assess damage after dental trauma.
Should I be concerned with the safety of digital radiographs?
Film-based x-rays of the past relied on ionized radiation to capture images, which exposed patients to higher radiation levels. These images were developed on film—much like traditional photography—which also meant a longer process and the potential for unclear results requiring retakes.
Today, modern dental x-rays use digital sensors that significantly reduce radiation exposure—by as much as 90%. Although the radiation emitted is body-safe, we still observe the necessary safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure, like wearing a protective apron before we take x-rays. We also recommend dental x-rays when it’s really necessary.
Ready to book an appointment?
Ballston Dental Care uses advanced digital x-rays in Arlington, Virginia, to ensure improved diagnostics and treatment outcomes. If you need digital x-rays or need to learn more about them, call (703) 229-8565 to talk to Ballston Dental Care.
