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Dental X-Rays & Radiographs

At Habersham Dental, we use Advanced imaging Technology to provide clear insight into the health of your teeth. We use 2D and 3D cone beam technology to get the most advanced diagnosis. Our low dose imaging reduces radiation exposure while maximizing our ability proactively diagnose and treatment plan. All these tools help our patients have a better understanding and educate them to make informed oral health decisions.

Learn more about the different types of dental x-rays we use during a complimentary exam.

Why Are X-Rays Used in Dentistry?

Dental X-rays — sometimes called “dental radiographs” — allow dentists to evaluate the inside of teeth and bone. They are necessary to ensure that areas unable to be seen with the naked eye are free of disease or problems.

By using x-rays, we can identify issues in the mouth before they become severe or noticeable, which often saves patients from excessive spending and avoidable dental procedures.

How Often Are X-Rays Needed?

During your initial consultation at Habersham Dental, we evaluate your current oral health and determine how often you need x-rays.

Specific factors affect the regularity of x-rays, such as

  • Dental history – Patients with a previous diagnosis of oral disease, cavities, periodontal disease, tooth decay, or other advanced dental concerns may require more x-rays than the average patient.
  • Age – Children often require more x-rays than older patients. The growth of their baby teeth involves closer attention as young teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay.
  • New patient – Patients without dental documents (or the ability to transfer previous dental documents) often need x-rays to help their dentist understand their oral health.
  • Smoking, eating sweets, and dry mouth – Certain environments cause cavities and tooth decay to spread more than others. Smokers, sweet-eaters, and patients diagnosed with dry mouth call for more regular x-rays to monitor the health of their teeth and gums.

What Issues Can Dental X-Rays Detect?

Dental x-rays provide information about your bone, sinuses, teeth, fillings, the roots of your teeth, and even your jaw. A few of the issues x-rays reflect include:

  • Decay in your teeth, between your teeth, or under your fillings
  • Bone loss in your jaw or around your teeth
  • Infection or abscess in teeth and gums
  • Growth and tooth placement – This is especially helpful in determining the need for braces, dentures, and other advanced dental treatments.
  • Cysts and tumors that could cause oral cancer

X-rays reveal any irregularities in the mouth. Undergoing regular x-rays ensures oral health by catching abnormalities before they become more significant.

Types Of Dental X-Rays

Habersham Dentistry offers two types of x-rays:

• 2D x-rays
• 3D x-rays

Below we describe the differences between 2D and 3D x-rays.

2-Dimensional X-rays

2D x-rays are images of the inside of the mouth used to identify cavities, observe tooth growth, and examine the tooth roots, tissues, and bones. Dentists use this form of x-ray most often.

Different kinds of Intraoral x-rays help your dentist inspect various parts of your mouth.

  • Bitewing x-rays focus on the alignment of your top and bottom teeth when you bite down. These images are most often used to detect cavities between teeth. These images are typically taken annually.
  • Panoramic x-rays encircle your head, give the dentist a better view of your entire lower face. Sinuses, TMJ, upper and lower jaw can all be seen in one image. This is a larger image that gives more of a broad view.
  • Periapical x-rays are a more focused image of a specific tooth. These images give your dentist a full view of the teeth captured, including the root and the crown. This allows them to check for infections or signs of bone loss.

3-Dimensional X-rays

3D x-rays or Cone Beam CT — is an advanced image that allows your dentist to view bone, teeth, sinuses in 3 dimensions. Where 2D would be like looking at a map, 3D would be like looking at a globe. Dentists use these images to evaluate the mouth in much greater detail. It allows for digital implant planning and viewing tooth position in relation to nerves or blood vessels. These 3D images allow for more predictable surgeries and better outcomes.

What Are The Benefits of Digital X-Rays?

  • Because of the development of digital x-rays, you and the team at Habersham dentistry can quickly develop a detailed understanding of the bones, tissues, and teeth in your mouth. 
  • Digital x-rays offer more precise, enlarged images of your teeth, bone structure and any existing tooth decay. Using Digital x-rays reduces radiation exposure, makes transferring photos less complicated, and produces less waste. 

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

As technology advances, x-rays become safer and safer to use. Currently, getting an x-ray involves a minimal amount of radiation exposure. Patients wear lead aprons to limit exposure, and our dentists take every precaution necessary for their protection from radiation.

We Create 😄 Smiles in Savannah!

Savannah’s Leader in Dental X-Rays

Habersham Dental specializes in creating healthy oral environments for our patients’ teeth. With the help of x-rays, we develop a deeper understanding of the inner workings of your teeth, gums, and bone structures.

Contact Habersham Dental today to schedule an appointment with our trusted team and learn more about digital x-rays and our services.