Overview
Digital x-rays or radiographs are done with an annual dental examination to provide a more thorough picture of your oral health. X-rays make it easier to diagnose concerns that are not visible by the naked eye and to understand more about your oral health by showing the interior of your mouth, including the teeth, gums, and jaw. There are several oral health conditions that may be diagnosed with digital images, including decay, cavities, abscesses, cysts, bone atrophy, and impactions. If these conditions are discovered in the early stages, you may have more effective and less invasive treatment options. As part of your annual exam at Ah! Dentistry in the DFW area, x-rays will help our dental team accurately diagnose and correct dental conditions.
Best Candidates
For most patients, x-rays are included in your dental examination. Digital x-rays may be performed as part of a preventive dental treatment plan or if you are concerned about pain in your mouth. Even though digital x-rays emit significantly less radiation compared to film x-rays, Ah! Dentistry likes to limit patient exposure. Although digital x-rays are usually safe for all patients, female patients who are breastfeeding or may be pregnant should talk to our team at the start of their appointment so extra cautionary steps may be taken.
What to Expect
Often performed at the start of your dental exam, digital imaging takes around 5 – 10 minutes to do. Many patients will get a set of x-rays to show the needed areas. Once they are complete, they will be uploaded to be viewed throughout your examination. We will show you any areas of concern and go over treatment options.
Follow-Up
A set of digital images will generally be performed once a year at your dental examination. For certain exams, a full mouth set may be performed for a more comprehensive view of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Your digital images will be stored with your dental file at Ah! Dentistry so that our team can view trends and address any developing problems.
Insurance Coverage
Usually, dental insurance will include and cover digital imaging costs as part of a dental examination. Our office can talk to your insurance company to estimate potential balances. If you have any remaining costs or if you are not using insurance, Ah! Dentistry takes several methods of payment and we can give you information on financing.
Plan Your Procedure
Digital X-Rays
X-rays are an advanced tool that can help to diagnose oral issues. As a step in an annual dental examination, digital x-rays can give a unique understanding that allows our dentists to diagnose developing conditions to be corrected before you feel pain. To improve your oral health, contact our team at one of our three DFW area locations to schedule an appointment for your dental examination with x-rays.