Digital Dental Radiographs (commonly referred to as
“x-rays”) vs. Traditional Dental X-Rays
As you may be aware, Sondhi-Biggs-Hansen Orthodontics takes
pride in staying up-to-date by using the most advanced technology available for
the comfort, convenience and safety of our patients. One of those technologies is digital
x-rays. We have all seen stories in the
news regarding the dangers of radiation exposure with traditional
x-rays, and while many patients maintain an aversion to dental x-rays due to
these types of stories, many are surprised to learn that the amount of
radiation present in a full set of traditional dental x-rays only
accounts for about 1 percent of their annual radiation exposure. Digital x-rays, on the other hand,
release radiation levels that are 80-90 percent lower than that!
Other advantages to digital x-rays are less waiting time,
shorter appointments, and the production of a nearly instantaneous image, which
provides a better understanding of treatment for both the patient and the
doctor. Digital x-rays are also
environmentally friendly. Since digital
x-rays are captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-ray,
which eliminates the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the
environment. Digital x-rays can also be
shared easily with other medical/dental professionals.
X-rays are necessary in orthodontic treatment for many
reasons. Although you may have just had
a full set of x-rays taken at your dentist’s office, our x-rays are looking for
things other than decay and the overall health of the teeth. We are looking for tumors or other pathologies,
possibly noticed for the first time.
Although this is rare, it has been known to save lives! These x-rays are also used to diagnose
orthodontic problems, such as the form and position of the teeth. We are interested in missing, extra, impacted
or misplaced teeth, as well as short, long or misshaped roots. Problems with the jaws include bones that are
too big, too small, off center, too far apart, too close together or misshapen. As you can tell, these x-rays are essential
to determining where problems exist and the best way to correct them.
Not only are digital x-rays safer for our patients than
traditional x-rays, please rest assured that Sondhi-Biggs-Hansen Orthodontics
invested in digital x-rays 10+ years ago!
Providing digital x-rays and concern for our patients is another
example of why we are “Smiles Above the Rest”!
If you have any questions about any of the recommendations
made for your treatment in our office, please don’t hesitate to ask the doctors
or any of our staff members.
