Dental X-Rays Services in Clifton, NJ

Dental X-rays are used to capture internal images of the teeth and jaws. When dentists need a better look at the internal structures in the mouth, such as the nerves, jawbone, teeth roots, or sinuses, they can use an X-ray to visualize them. These images provide valuable information that is not visible during a regular dental exam.

Dental X-rays are safe as they only emit low levels of radiation. Unlike traditional film X-rays, the modern digital X-rays that dentists use today are convenient and minimize radiation exposure by 80 to 90%. Overall, dental X-rays are an important tool in modern dentistry that helps professionals diagnose a wide range of issues.

Like X-rays used on other parts of the body, dental X-rays capture images through electromagnetic radiation. When you come in for a dental X-ray, the professional will use a special machine to take pictures inside your mouth. This machine emits a small amount of radiation, which can be described as invisible rays that pass through your teeth and gums. These rays hit small sensors to capture the rays that pass through your mouth and turn them into digital images that you and your dentist can see on a computer screen.

During the process, you will be provided with a lead apron to shield the rest of your body from radiation exposure. In some cases, you’ll be asked to bite down on a small, plastic bite block to position your teeth for the X-ray. You’ll need to stay still and hold your breath for a brief moment while the X-ray is taken. The dental professional may need to take multiple X-rays from different angles to capture all the necessary images.

With the help of dental X-rays, dentists can diagnose a variety of conditions. These include:

• Cavities and damage to the teeth.
• Decay beneath dental fillings.
• Infections.
• Gum disease.
• Abscessed teeth.
• Position of impacted or unerupted teeth.
• Developmental abnormalities.
• Bone abnormalities.
• Cysts and tumors.

In addition, dental professionals use X-rays to determine whether patients are eligible for certain treatments, such as orthodontic appliances, dentures, or dental implants. Furthermore, dental X-rays are used to check how healing is going after certain procedures, such as root canal treatment or a dental bone graft.

Dentists use various types of X-rays. Each type serves a specific purpose and can provide a unique view of the internal structures in the mouth. There are two main categories of dental X-rays: intraoral and extraoral. The types of intraoral dental X-rays include:

Bitewing X-rays: These are used to capture images of the upper and lower teeth in a single area of the mouth. Bitewing X-rays are useful for detecting cavities as well as monitoring changes that occur below the gum line.

Occlusal X-rays: Occlusal X-rays are used to assess issues on the floor or roof of the mouth. In addition, this type of X-ray is used to identify cysts, jaw fractures, and impacted or fractured teeth.

Periapical X-rays: These X-rays are used to evaluate the root structure, surrounding bone, and the presence of abscesses, cysts, or other abnormalities in the tooth root area.

In addition, dentists also use extraoral X-rays, such as:

Panoramic X-rays: Panoramic X-rays provide a broad view of the entire mouth, including the teeth, jaws, sinuses, and surrounding structures. This provides the dentist with comprehensive insights into your oral health. Panoramic X-rays are often used in treatment and surgery planning processes.

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT): CBCT scans provide a 3D image of the internal structures of the mouth. They can be used to detect facial fractures or tumors.

Yes, dental X-rays are safe when the proper precautions are taken. Dental professionals use as little radiation exposure as possible during the process. In addition, you will be provided with protective equipment to ensure the rest of your body is shielded from radiation during your X-ray. Furthermore, the benefits of diagnosing oral health problems early with the help of X-ray technology outweigh the minimal risks of the procedure. If you have any questions about dental X-rays and their safety, our team of experts can provide clarity and guidance. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. Our dental practice is conveniently located at 1113 Main Avenue, Suite A, Clifton, NJ 07011. We serve patients from Clifton NJ, Passaic NJ, Woodland Park NJ, Nutley NJ, Garfield NJ, Fairfield NJ, and BEYOND!