Digital Radiography West Caldwell, NJ
During a dentist visit, your child may need imaging tests. These tests can help diagnose dental problems in their early stages. Dental imaging tests allow the dentist to create a customized treatment plan. Digital radiography delivers rapid results, using less radiation than traditional X-rays.
Pediatric dentists are available at Little Molars Pediatric Dentistry in West Caldwell and the surrounding area. Our team offers on-site digital radiography. Digital images provide a detailed, accurate picture of your child's mouth. Call us at (862) 451-8222 to learn more.
Digital vs. traditional X-rays
Traditional X-rays are a common feature of general dentistry. As a parent, you have probably had many X-rays yourself. Dentists use X-rays to spot problems below the gumline. X-rays also reveal early tooth decay and bone problems.
But X-rays have some drawbacks. These images can be difficult for dental providers to store and transfer. They allow for limited image quality. Some problems can be difficult to spot on an X-ray. An X-ray may not be right for patients who need to avoid radiation exposure.
Digital X-rays are different. These tests provide highly detailed images using less radiation. As with digital photos, it is easy to send and store digital X-rays. The images can be processed and reviewed instantly. Providers can review, enlarge, and enhance the images. There is no delay and no need to digitize the images before sending them to another provider. This can help speed up the treatment process.
“As with digital photos, it is easy to send and store digital X-rays.”
Types of Digital Dental X-rays
The dentist may take several digital X-rays as part of your child's care plan. These images may include:
- Bitewing: Takes a picture of a small section of your mouth
- Periapical: Captures the whole tooth, from crown to root
- Full mouth: A series of images, including bitewing and periapical
- Panorama: Takes a full, continuous shot of your mouth and jaw
- Occlusal: Examines the entire arch of the upper or lower jaw
In some cases, the dentist may take "extraoral" X-Rays. These images study the shape of your facial bones and the area outside the mouth. They can help patients who need complex restorative work.
Many children receive bitewing X-rays as part of their preventive care plan. But if the dentist suspects a problem, they might take several other kinds of images. Your child's dentist can explain which kind of X-rays they plan to take.
“Your child’s dentist can explain which kind of X-rays they plan to take.”
Planning for a Dental Procedure
If your child needs dental care, your dentist will begin by taking X-rays. Digital radiography can help diagnose cavities, decay, gum disease, abscesses, cysts, tumors, bone infections, and more. Digital X-rays help the dentist find out what is happening inside the teeth and below the gumline. The dentist can use this information to plan out dental procedures such as:
- Fillings
- Crowns and bridges
- Dentures
- Implants
- Gum surgery
- Root canals
- Extractions
Your child might receive imaging tests before and after treatment. The dentist uses these X-rays to make sure the treatment was a success.
“Digital X-rays help the dentist find out what is happening inside the teeth and below the gumline.”
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Benefits of Digital Radiography
Digital radiography often uses less radiation than traditional X-rays. As a result, it might be safer for young patients. Most dental authorities recommend limiting radiation exposure for small children.
Digital X-rays have other benefits. Unlike traditional X-rays, digital images appear instantly. Providers can spot problems and retake images for a better view. They can also sharpen, flip, colorize, and zoom in on the images. This helps providers understand what they are seeing. The dentist can then communicate test results to parents and young patients.
“Digital radiography often uses less radiation than traditional X-rays.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What types of digital X-rays might my child receive?
Q. Why does my child need a digital X-ray?
Q. What are some benefits of digital X-rays?
People Also Ask
Q. Why should I take my child to a pediatric dentist?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are digital X-rays?
A. Digital radiography takes images of your teeth, bones, and gums. Like X-rays, these images look beneath the surface of the teeth. They can detect cavities, abscesses, and other problems lurking below the gumline. Many dentists use digital X-rays as part of their preventive care plan.
Q. Are digital X-rays safe?
A. Digital radiography typically uses less radiation than traditional X-rays. They might be a safer option for many patients. Even so, dentists will receive the patients' medical history before ordering an X-ray. Before receiving digital X-rays, talk to the provider about your unique health concerns.
Q. What can I expect during a digital X-ray?
A. The procedure is similar to that of traditional dental X-rays. The dentist might ask the patient to bite down on a small device. Meanwhile, the dental team takes images of their mouth. The process is not painful, and it takes just a few minutes to complete.
Q. Can pregnant patients receive digital dental X-rays?
A. It is usually safe to receive dental imaging tests while pregnant. But let your dentist know about your condition and discuss the risks beforehand. Your dentist can provide you with a leaded apron to protect your baby.
Q. Can children receive this test?
A. Children can safely receive dental X-rays. But the dentist may not include digital X-rays as part of a preventive care plan. Instead, they may reserve these tests for diagnostic purposes. Ask your child's dentist how frequently they will perform X-rays.
Quality Pediatric Dental Services Can Transform Smiles
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get your child the professional treatment they need.
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Definition of Pediatric Dental Terminology
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If your child needs dental X-rays, digital radiography may be a good option. Digital X-rays are safer for many patients and provide rapid results. The dentist can use the tests to create a treatment plan that meets your child's needs. With digital X-rays, your child receives cutting-edge care.
If you are looking for a new pediatric dental provider, let Little Molars Pediatric Dentistry in West Caldwell help. Call us at call 862-451-8222 to learn more about our services and policies.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2024
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