Dental imaging involves the use of X-rays to examine your dental structures. From early detection of dental problems to accurate diagnosis to precise treatment, dental imaging provides important results to our dentists. Commonly called X-rays. We use radiographs for many reasons: to find hidden dental structures, malignant or benign masses, bone loss and cavities.
A controlled burst of X-ray radiation forms a radiographic image by penetrating oral structures at different levels based on the patient’s anatomical density. It then strikes the film or sensor. The amount of radiation you are exposed to during a dental X-ray is very low and less likely to cause harmful health effects.
Why is dental imaging important?
Dental imaging plays a crucial role in modern dentistry by providing essential insights that allow us to provide you with more accurate diagnoses, personalised treatment planning, and patient-centric care. These imaging techniques, including dental radiography, 3D imaging, and digital scans, allow our dentists to visualise structures within the mouth that are not visible to the naked eye. This includes:
Detecting cavities
Assessing the health of the roots of teeth
Identifying bone density
Evaluating the positioning of teeth
Diagnosing of dental issues
Early detection of issues like cysts and tumours
Monitoring growth and development
Orthodontic planning
Finding extra or missing teeth
Dental imaging is particularly vital in guiding more complex treatments like orthodontics, dental implant placements and oral surgeries, ensuring utmost precision while minimising risks during procedures.
By enabling early detection of issues, dental imaging helps prevent potential complications, supports informed decision-making and contributes to more efficient dental treatments, ultimately allowing us to give you the best dental care possible.
Types of Dental X-Rays
While there are different types of dental x-rays, the type your dentist takes will depend on factors such as the reason the x-ray is being taken and what our dentist is looking for.
The types of x-rays we provide at Port Melbourne Dental include:
A panoramic (wide view) X-ray of the lower face offers a broad view of the entire mouth, including teeth, jaws and sinuses.
OPG X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for all dental procedures. We recommend these X-rays are updated every 2 years.
PMD Dental Care offers a remarkable new technology that creates virtually limitless views of the face - 3D imaging or 3D CBCT imaging.
3D CBCT imaging has become increasingly important in treatment planning and diagnosis in implant dentistry as well as endodontics, periodontics and orthodontics.
It’s fast, simple and completely painless. A single 10-second scan allows our practitioners to quickly see computer-generated views of the bones of the face, the teeth, and other details from any angle, in 3D and colour! These 3D imaging technology provides our dentist with all the information they need to plan your treatment effectively.
Lateral Cephalometric X-rays take a lateral (sideways) view of the face which demonstrates the bones and facial contours of the profile.
Lat Ceph X-rays are usually used in the diagnosis and treatment of orthodontics..
Bitewings are a diagnostic tool used to view the interproximal (in-between) surfaces of the
teeth, showing the upper and lower teeth in one area to check for decay or bone loss. It is called bitewing because the patient bites down on a wing-shaped device that holds the X-ray film or sensor in place.
Bitewing X-rays should be taken every 2 years to ensure there is no active decay or bone loss.
An x-ray that focuses on a particular tooth and the surrounding bone, showing the full length of the tooth, from the tip of the crown to the base of the root.
This x-ray is used mostly for Endodontic (Root Canal) treatment implant placement and other procedures that require a detailed understanding of a specific tooth.
Periapical X-rays are also used as a diagnostic tool for pain relief.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Like we mentioned above, dental x-rays involve a low level of radiation. In fact, the amount of radiation you are exposed to from various sources in your everyday life is greater than what you are exposed to during a dental x-ray.
As a result, it’s unlikely to cause any adverse effects on your health and is safe for both children and adults. However, dental x-rays in large doses can be harmful. And if you are pregnant, you can still take a dental x-ray. But, it’s best to let our dentist know that you are pregnant, so they can decide if an x-ray is absolutely necessary for you.
Why Choose Port Melbourne Dental
Take the first step towards achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile with our wide range of treatments when you choose Port Melbourne Dental.
Our dental team consists of experienced professionals who are skilled in a wide range of dental services. Their expertise ensures that you receive the highest quality of care for your oral health needs.
Our clinic is equipped with modern technology, which allows for more accurate diagnostics and treatments.
We tailor treatment plans to suit your unique individual requirements so that you receive the right care.
Our friendly team is available 7 days a week to assist with any urgent needs that may arise. To book your appointment, please contact our friendly staff at 03 9646 5100. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you've always wanted.
