Digital X-Ray

Digital X-rays provide a safe and noninvasive way to diagnose oral health problems, such as cavities and infected tooth pulp. At Tropical Dental Care in Tomball, Texas, experienced general and family dentists Kenneth Tran, DDS, and Nikki Korloo, DDS, with the team, provide digital X-rays to people of all ages. Call the office to request a digital X-ray consultation today or book online.

What is a digital X-ray?

A digital X-ray is an imaging procedure that uses electronic sensors and low levels of radiation to capture photos of your tooth roots, alveolar bone (the bone that anchors your teeth), and jaws. They provide a quick and completely noninvasive way to identify problems, like impacted teeth or tooth decay.

It’s important to undergo digital oral X-rays at least once a year, even if your mouth seems healthy. Checkups can alert you to issues that don’t present obvious symptoms.

How do I prepare for digital X-rays?

Digital X-rays don’t require any special preparation. On the day of your appointment, brush and floss before visiting the office, so your mouth is clean and hygienic. 

Before taking the X-rays, your provider has you remove anything with metal, such as jewelry, eyeglasses, or hearing aids. Let your dentist know if you’re pregnant. Digital X-rays are safe for most people, but they emit small amounts of radiation, so it’s important the team’s aware and may advise against them under certain circumstances.

What are the types of digital X-rays?

The Tropical Dental Care team offers several types of digital X-rays, including:

Bitewing

Bitewing X-rays show how the top and bottom of your teeth line up, so your dentist can check their alignment. They can also identify cavities or bone loss in your jaw and upper sinus.

Occlusal

Occlusal X-rays capture images of your teeth and jaw while your mouth is completely closed. Tropical Dental Care uses occlusal X-rays to detect abnormalities on the roof and the floor of the mouth and the palate.

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT scan)

CBCT dental scan is ideal for detecting impacted wisdom teeth or guiding the placement of dental implants.

Panoramic

A machine rotates around your entire head capturing dozens of pictures during a panoramic X-ray.

Periapical

If you have a toothache, your provider might order periapical X-rays. Periapical X-rays capture high-quality photos of a single tooth (or several teeth) from root to crown.

When do I receive the results of my digital oral X-rays?

Digital X-rays develop instantly, so your Tropical Dental Care provider reviews them during the same appointment. Your dentist examines the photos on a computer and uses special software to manipulate them, accessing various angles and views. They check for problems like cavities, damaged tooth pulp, or bone decay. 

If your Tropical Dental Care provider identifies any problems, they discuss your treatment options and develop a custom plan.

Call Tropical Dental Care to request digital X-rays today, or book online.