X-rays

Most people know that x-rays are used to take pictures of the jaw bone and teeth, but few know that x-rays also enable dentists to examine for diseases such as oral cancers, sinus infections, gum diseases, and jaw joint pain. Many diseases that would go undetected for a long period of time through visual examination can be caught at an early treatable stage through x-rays. Due to early detection, many diseases are treated without the need for drastic treatments, such as roots canals or extraction's, can be avoided.

X-rays are especially valuable for diagnosing developmental problems in children. Through regular x-rays, any malformation of the bone and jaw area can be detected and treated. X-rays can also detect possible problems such as misalignment of teeth and improper eruption of adult teeth.

Many patients ask about the exposure to x-ray radiation and possible health risks. In our office we use a combination of a panographic x-ray machine and E-speed film to keep exposure to x-ray radiation at a minimum. Panographic x-ray machines take x-rays of a patient's complete upper and lower jaw, sinuses, jaw joint, and teeth using approximately the same amount of radiation you'd get on a one-way plane trip to Denver. E-speed film allows x-rays to be taken 50% faster than conventional x-rays cutting exposure in half. Overall, it takes about 50 dental x-rays to equal the exposure of just one chest x-ray. However, even with such low exposure it is our policy to take x-rays only when necessary and to keep your exposure to a minimum.

X-ray film is housed in a small cardboard covering with a bite pad attached. The film is positioned inside your mouth so that you use only your front teeth to bite down on the pad. By using only your front teeth, any discomfort from the cardboard piece is minimized.

If you have any questions or concerns about x-ray examinations, please feel free to call the office.