Digital X-Rays
Gone are the days when we had to wait for the development of film x-rays. With advances in modern medicine, diagnosing and treating dental health concerns has never been easier than it has with digital radiography.
Urban Dental Studio uses digital dental x-rays to capture detailed images of a patient's oral cavity and underlying structures. Digital radiography is very safe for patients of all ages, and it aids doctors in diagnosis and treatment planning.
The Importance of Digital Radiography
Digital radiography allows us to quickly and efficiently diagnose oral health problems. We perform in-depth dental examinations, but we can only see above the gum line. Other areas of the mouth remain hidden from view, including the tooth's internal shape, tooth roots, and contact areas between teeth.
Digital x-rays show these hidden areas and can reveal developing cavities in contact areas, infections or impacted wisdom teeth. For example, if a patient has a tooth infection, a digital x-ray can help us determine the extent and the proper treatment. The dentist can also monitor jaw growth and development and identify any issues with the jaw joints, like TMJ.
The Advantages of Digital X-Rays
Not only are digital x-rays instant, but they also emit minimal radiation—up to 90 percent less than traditional film x-rays. Though radiation exposure is extremely low, we still use protective equipment to enhance the safety of our patients and further limit exposure.
Digital dental x-rays make it easier and faster to identify hidden cavities or other concerns below the surface. Because these radiographs don't require chemicals or film to develop images, they are also better for the environment as they don't contribute to waste.
Common Types of Digital Dental X-Rays
We take intraoral and extraoral digital x-rays. Intraoral images are those taken inside the mouth, while extraoral images are those taken outside the mouth.
Intraoral X-Rays
- Bite-wing x-rays detect decay between teeth, check the condition of bone around teeth and assess the integrity and fit of dental restorations, such as fillings and crowns.
- Periapical x-rays show the entire tooth, from its crown to root and surrounding bone. These x-rays can detect abscesses and assess bone loss around teeth.
Extraoral X-Rays
- Panoramic x-rays are taken by a large machine that rotates around the patient's head. Providing a single detailed image of both arches, panoramic x-rays can identify impacted wisdom teeth and jaw problems. These x-rays also help us better plan for specific treatments, like dental implants.
Your Partners in Oral Health Care 
At Urban Dental Studio, we believe in respectful and honest communication with our patients. We want our patients to fully understand their oral health needs, which is why we believe digital diagnostics promote an open dialogue between doctor and patient.
Because the x-ray images appear on a large-screen chairside monitor, patients can visualise x-ray results and discuss treatment options in more detail with their dentist. We can adjust the images if needed, enlarging any areas that may require closer inspection.
The frequency of digital dental x-rays depends on each patient's oral health and medical history. We only take x-rays when required, such as preventive care, treatment planning and emergencies.
Let Us Help Keep Your Smile Safe
Are you or your loved ones up-to-date on dental x-rays? We are always happy to meet with new and current patients to discuss oral health needs and develop detailed treatment strategies.
We invite you to contact our Auckland dental clinic to arrange your next appointment.
