X-Rays in Frisco, TX

As part of every patient's annual dental examination, Sweet Tooth Dental Loft in Frisco, TX takes digital X-rays of the patient's teeth, jawbone, and oral tissue. Digital X-rays help general dentist Dr. Camelia Cooper to find decay that is not visible to the naked eye, assess and monitor bone loss, see under previous fillings for signs of continuing decay, check for infections in the dental roots, and track the patient's oral history for signs of progressing conditions. Digital X-rays may be taken from inside the mouth (intraoral) or from outside the mouth (extraoral) to show images of the entire tooth (periapical), the back teeth (bite-wing), the bite of the jaw (occlusal), and a complete image of the teeth, jaws, and sinuses (panoramic). Once the digital X-ray is viewed by Dr. Cooper, she will be able to discuss any oral concerns, such as cavities, cysts, impacted teeth, bone loss, and abscesses, and the patient's best treatment options during their consultation.

While a thorough dental examination can detect and diagnose a wide variety of dental issues, not all problems are visible to the naked eye. For this reason, dental x-rays are absolutely necessary for dentists to ensure they have a full picture of your oral health. Dental x-rays allow dentists to see inside and between the teeth to diagnose small areas of decay between the teeth, abscesses, decay under fillings, jawbone loss from periodontal disease, teeth position, and more. X-rays also show them the roots of the teeth, facial bone makeup, and jaw position. In short, dental x-rays help dentists identify hidden issues and treat them before they turn into serious problems.

Digital X-rays take no more than 5 minutes to complete and are not painful for the patient. A digital sensor will be positioned in or around the patient’s mouth. The picture is taken and instantly sent to a computer where the X-rays can be viewed by Dr. Cooper and easily stored in the patient’s file for future reference. Keeping past X-rays helps Dr. Cooper see the patient’s progress over time and makes it easier to notice changes.

After the X-rays are taken, Dr. Cooper will go over any concerns they see with the patient. Dr. Cooper will then go through the patient’s options for treatment or any recommendations for home care to prevent possible problems. Digital X-rays use a smaller amount of radiation compared to traditional X-rays, but patients should still wear a lead apron and let Dr. Cooper know if they are pregnant or breastfeeding so extra precautions can be taken.

What’s the difference between a digital X-ray and a normal X-ray?

Traditional X-ray radiography uses film to image the body’s internal structures, whereas digital X-rays digitize the images into files that can be stored on a computer,  making storage and retrieval much easier while reducing costs. The digital images can be enlarged and enhanced to assure a more accurate diagnosis. Digital X-rays also produce 80% less radiation than traditional X-ray imaging (although traditional X-rays are still generally considered safe and effective).

Are digital X-rays better?

Traditional X-ray radiography is still safe and effective, but digital X-ray technology allows your doctor to store more images, enhance and enlarge images to ensure the proper diagnosis, and digital X-rays also produce less radiation. The images can be viewed within seconds on a computer screen, making diagnosis much faster. Digital X-rays are also more environmentally friendly since they don’t require developing with chemicals and expensive film.

What is a digital X-ray used for?

Digital X-rays can image the internal structures of the body, which include teeth, bones, and organs. This allows your doctor to identify and properly diagnose any issues occurring internally in your body.

Digital X-rays help Dr. Cooper see and prevent dental problems, like cavities and gum disease, in her Frisco area patients. An annual dental exam with digital X-rays is an important part of every Sweet Tooth patient’s oral health care plan.