Types of Digital Dental X-rays
Digital x-rays use a sensor instead of film to capture an image. The information gathered is the same as any other x-ray, but the amount of radiation is considerably less and because it is digitally acquired, it can be manipulated in size allowing magnification for closer viewing.
- Bite-wing x-rays (cavity detecting x-rays) can detect decay in
between the teeth and changes in the bone that supports
the teeth. - A periapical x-ray shows several teeth including the crown of the
tooth and all of the roots and bones of the teeth. This x-ray shows
Abscesses, periodontal conditions, tumors, and even bone patterns
of some systemic diseases (diseases of the entire body). - A complete mouth series is a combination of the bite-wing x-rays
and the periapical films and consists of 18 to 21 images. - A panoramic x-ray shows all the upper and lower teeth,
large portion of the jaws, and other structures on one large image.
This film can detect cysts, impacted teeth, retained root
fragments, fracture and other conditions of the jaw. This x-ray is
not as good as the bite wing or periapical x-rays at detecting
decay or periodontal conditions.
At any one time, either or all of these tools may be required for diagnostic reasons as each of them serve a different purpose.
Green Zone X-ray Technology
The Green Zone is a dental office that uses Tru-Align technology to reduce dental x-ray radiation by up to five-fold.
Think of your garden hose. You can set it to spray and scatter water or to shoot a narrow, steady stream. Some x-ray systems “spray” radiation in an attempt to get all the image the dentist wants for diagnosis. But if the dentist utilizes the Tru-Align, it reduces that scatter radiation and reduces your exposure to radiation.
You will see the Tru-Align when you are in the chair and ready for your x-rays. It is on the x-ray head and has that tell-tale green ring, the symbol of The Green Zone. You can ask your hygienist or doctor any questions you have about it.
Actually, the Tru-Align has a few more benefits. Because it focuses the radiation and aligns the x-ray, your dentist will get better x-rays and thus reduce the need for retakes. Also, Tru-Align provides clearer, better defined images which enables us to better diagnose your level of oral health. And, of course, there is the added benefit to the environment. Less radiation, in the long run, benefits us all – you, your family, the dentist and staff, and the environment.
We invite you to enter the Green Zone.