A Guide to Digital Dental X-rays, How They Save Smiles and Lives
Dental X-rays are essential to patients’ oral and overall health. And we at the office of Jamie J. Alexander, D.D.S., PA, use the latest advances in digital dental X-ray technology (radiography). These advancements support accurate diagnostics and provide peace of mind to our valued patients in Boynton Beach, Florida, and beyond.
Digital X-rays
We believe (and the research bears out) that X-rays or radiography play an important role in diagnosing many dental anomalies, diseases, and conditions properly. A proper diagnosis facilitates prompt and effective symptom relief and treatment of underlying problems. With diagnostics as a cornerstone of our practice, Dr. Alexander has invested in digital X-rays or dental radiography. These digital systems present an alternative to the conventional film-based X-rays or radiography of yesteryear. They support:
• Utmost safety and peace of mind, with up to 90% less radiation exposure
• Well-informed patients; we can use digital monitors to show individuals the condition of their teeth and any underlying problems, which aids in patient communication and education
• Secure, efficient, and hassle-free electronic communication with other dental specialties and insurance companies
• Planet-friendly practices by eliminating the chemicals and lead waste associated with traditional X-ray processing
• Fast and convenient dental visits (unlike film, digital X-rays do not have to be “developed”)
What to Expect
Everyone should have dental X-rays done periodically! Yes, even healthy patients. We want you to stay that way – healthy. Digital X-rays help us to accomplish this, by pinpointing problems that might otherwise go undetected until it is too late and the damage has been done. Oral conditions are notoriously “silent” or asymptomatic in their earliest stages. You may mistakenly think your teeth and gums are fine because your smile looks good and you feel OK.
Our precision X-rays go far beyond the surface and what can be seen with the human eye. We may use this technology to find “hidden” cavities, gingival inflammation or periodontal disease, abscesses and other oral anomalies, including pre-cancers and cancerous lesions. Furthermore, our advanced diagnostics aid in optimal treatment planning. We use X-rays to find the precise positioning of tooth roots or impacted teeth in bone tissue. Dr. Alexander can also get a complete and accurate picture of maxillofacial structures, such as the jawbone and the jaw joints (when evaluating for TMJ Disorders and symptoms).
While we use the highest quality technologies, the office of Dr. Jamie J. Alexander also abides by the best practices set forth by the American Dental Association. We go to great lengths to ensure our patients are protected from radiation exposure during dental X-rays. For instance, we use special shield coverings to protect the upper body and a thyroid collar to protect sensitive areas of the neck.
Schedule your appointment today!
Dentists like Dr. Alexander save thousands of teeth each year. They even save lives. After all, dental offices are on the front lines of diagnosing conditions that can seriously threaten your systemic health, like abscesses and tumors. We welcome new patients and any questions you may have about our X-rays and office. Our team in Boynton Beach, FL, looks forward to hearing from you. Call us at (561) 739-4778.