Dental X-Rays

Digital X-Rays

At Laraway Family Dentistry, we use digital X-rays, a more streamlined way of taking dental radiographs. Like traditional X-rays, digital X-rays provide an in-depth view of the mouth’s structures, helping dentists detect complications and develop effective treatment plans. Digital X-rays can reveal hidden caries, bone erosion, and tooth decay beneath restorations.

Advantages of Digital X-Rays

• Require less radiation and no film to process
• Produce instant digital images that can easily be enhanced or enlarged for more accurate diagnosis
• Images are captured, stored, and even transmitted via in-office computers
• Dentists can easily print or email copies of X-rays in just seconds
• Patient experience is better and far more efficient when digital X-rays are used

Frequently Asked Questions about Digital X-rays

Should I get dental X-Rays?

Yes. Dental X-rays can identify tooth decay, gum disease, and damage beneath the surface of the teeth, where caries are less visible during examination. Furthermore, X-rays provide a reference point for the progression of decay in your mouth over time. You should have X-rays taken regularly, especially if you are experiencing oral health complications or planning to undergo a dental procedure such as a root canal.

What should I expect when I get dental X-Rays?

Getting traditional X-rays can take several minutes. A thick paper tab is placed into the mouth, which you will be asked to bite down on. Most patients find that dental X-rays are completely painless and cause no discomfort. In some cases, dentists use intraoral X-rays and extraoral X-rays to capture images of the face, jaw, and skull. Extra-oral x-rays are typically used to identify impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth.

What happens after my dentist takes X-rays?

Your X-rays will be saved either on film or digitally. In the future, your dentist may request additional dental X-rays every few years to monitor the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw over time. If you are considered high risk for oral disease or are experiencing complications, your dentist may prefer to take X-rays more frequently.

Make an Appointment For Digital X-Rays

Dental x-rays are part of a dental exam and typically covered by insurance. If you are due or past due for your exam, please contact us to make an appointment.