Digital Dental X-Rays

Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam.  Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Dental x-rays may reveal:

• Abscesses or cysts.
• Bone loss.
• Cancerous and 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 can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Are dental x-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment.  The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is much less than the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.

Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe.  At Pacific Palisades Dentistry, we take necessary precautions to limit our patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays.  These precautions include using lead apron shields with thyroid collars to protect the body and using modern, fast digital sensors that cut down the exposure time of each x-ray and require much less radiation than traditional high-speed film.

How often should dental x-rays be taken?

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.  Dr. Kamins and our dental hygienists will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.

A full mouth series of dental x-rays is usually recommended for new patients.  A full series is generally dependable for three to five years.  Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are often  taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended as needed to detect new dental problems.