Digital X-Rays
Digital radiography ( Digital X-ray) is the latest technology used by our Pittsburgh dental practice to take dental X-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged, helping the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.
Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problems may go undetected.
Dental X-Rays May Reveal: 
- Abscesses or cysts
- Bone loss
- Cancerous or non-cancerous tumors
- Decay between the teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are Dental X-rays Safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays. Not only are digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, they are faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.
Even though digital x-rays produce a low level of radiation, and are considered very safe, dentists still take precautions to limit the patients exposure to radiation, such as only taking them when they are necessary.
How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient's individual dental health needs. Your Pittsburgh dentist will recommend necessary x-rays based upon review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.
A full mouth series of dental x-rays are recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of your top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (checkup) visits and are recommend once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
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