Digital X-rays
For seeing decay, bone and infection that an exam on its own cannot show.
Digital X-rays use a small sensor instead of film, so the image is on the screen beside you in seconds. They show what looking in the mouth cannot: decay between teeth, infection at a root tip, and the bone level under your gums.
What we use it for.
- At a first visit, to see the parts of your teeth and jaw an exam cannot reach.
- To find decay starting between two teeth, where it stays hidden until it is large.
- To check the bone around the teeth when gums bleed or have pulled back.
- To confirm infection at the tip of a root before a root canal or an extraction.
- To follow a child's adult teeth as they form under the baby teeth.
From your side of the chair.
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Only when needed
Dr. Malik takes X-rays when your history and what he sees call for it, not at every visit. Recent images from another dentist can be sent over instead.
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A sensor, not film
A small sensor on a plastic holder goes in your mouth and you bite gently to hold it steady. Each image takes a second or two.
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Cover and step out
A lead apron with a thyroid collar goes over you first. We step out of the room for the moment the machine runs, then come straight back.
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On the screen
The image is up on the monitor before you sit up. Dr. Malik turns it towards you and points out what he is looking at.
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Kept on your file
Your images stay on file, so the next set can be compared against this one. They go with you if you move to another dentist; just ask.
What it costs, and who pays.
X-rays are billed with the visit they are taken at, so there is no separate appointment. Most dental plans cover a small check-up set each year and a full set every few years. Because coverage runs on those intervals, tell us if you have had X-rays elsewhere recently and we ask for them rather than repeat them.
Ask for a written estimateDigital X-rays, answered.
Are dental X-rays safe?
The dose from a digital X-ray is small, lower than film, and a lead apron and thyroid collar cover you. Dr. Malik takes them when there is a reason to, not by routine.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
Most adults with healthy teeth need a small check-up set about once a year, and a full set every few years. If you get cavities often, or your gums need watching, they come around more frequently.
Can I have dental X-rays while pregnant?
Tell us if you are pregnant or think you may be. Routine images usually wait. If there is pain or infection, an X-ray is taken with an apron, because leaving the infection is the bigger risk.
Can you use the X-rays from my old dentist?
Yes, if they are recent enough. Give us the name of the office and we ask them to send the files, which saves you a set.
