Digital Dental Radiographs

Radiographs are valuable tools in the oral health care of children and adolescents. They are used in detecting and monitoring oral disease, trauma, and growth and development.

There are different types of radiographs that serve different purposes;

• Bitewing radiographs are useful to detect decay between the teeth , or other areas that  are not visible to the naked eye.
• Periapical radiographs are more focused on a localized area of teeth including the bone and surrounding structures.
• Panoramic radiographs are used during the mixed dentition phase to assess the number of teeth present, growth pattern of the permanent dentition as well as the evaluation of the maxillary and mandibular bone structure.
• Cephalometric images are typically used for orthodontic purposes to assess the profile and the patient’s growth pattern.
• CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) is a CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is a three-dimensional radiograph that is only used in particular situations as an extra diagnostic tool because it emits more radiation.
• Digital radiographs are completed using x-ray sensitive sensors that capture data and immediately transfer it into a computer system. The amount of radiation is greatly reduced compared to the traditional radiography because of the sensitivity of the digital imaging sensors. 
• Dental radiographs are taken judiciously based on the patient’s risk of getting cavities. Your pediatric dentist will determine if and when radiographs are necessary to further minimize exposure to the patient.
• Patient’s wear a lead apron to protect them from during the x-ray process.
• At Bright Healthy Smiles, the pediatric dentists will always have a discussion with the parents regarding risks and benefits of dental radiographs prior to them being taken.