Digital X-Rays & Intraoral Cameras
Using the most advanced dental technology is just as important as staying current with the latest treatment techniques. Because Valley Dental Turlock is dedicated to the safest, most convenient care, we use advanced digital X-ray technology in our office.
Digital X-rays give us several imaging options that save time, provide clearer images, and expose patients to far less radiation than traditional film. Paired with an intraoral camera, they give a clear vision of your dental health so we can catch problems early, often before you feel any symptoms.
Digital X-Rays vs. Film
Traditional X-rays already used low levels of radiation, but going digital lowered exposure by up to 90% more. Instead of film, an electronic sensor captures the image, so we can see results instantly, retaking a blurry image or moving straight to your oral exam without waiting for development.
Digital images can also be enlarged on a monitor, giving your dentist and hygienist a far better view of the detail. The result is faster, safer, and more accurate diagnostics at every visit.
Why Do I Need X-Rays?
Digital X-rays are a diagnostic tool that lets dentists see what is happening below the surface. Without them, some issues could go undetected, including abscesses or cysts, bone loss, cancerous and non-cancerous tumors, decay between the teeth, developmental abnormalities, poor tooth and root positions, and problems inside a tooth or below the gumline.
Detecting these issues as early as possible can save you money, pain, and time, and in extreme cases, it may even save your life.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment every day. Each year your body receives about 3.1 millisieverts (mSv) of natural radiation, while the radiation from dental X-rays is only about 0.005 mSv. Digital X-rays produce even less radiation than film and create less disposable waste.
Even at these very low levels, we take extra precautions, we only take the X-rays that are necessary and use lead apron shields. The need for X-rays is individual to each patient; your dentist determines yours based on your medical history, symptoms, and risk. For new patients we usually recommend a full series, followed by necessary images at your cleanings once or twice a year.
Intraoral Camera
While X-rays provide valuable information, they do not show everything inside your mouth. Our intraoral camera lets us see every aspect of your teeth and gums in incredible detail, uncovering cracked teeth, plaque deposits, cavities next to fillings, and excessive wear. Discovering problems early makes treatment less invasive and more cost-effective.
The camera is small, about the size of the mirror we use during your hygiene appointments, and you would barely notice it. Best of all, you can see exactly what we see on a monitor, helping you better understand your dental health and make more informed decisions about your care.
Benefits of Digital Imaging
- Up to 90% less radiation than traditional film
- Instant images, no waiting for development
- Clearer photos that can be enlarged for detail
- Detects decay, bone loss, and hidden problems early
- Lead apron shields and X-rays only when necessary
- Intraoral camera lets you see what we see
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays help Dr. Ahmadi see what is happening below the surface of your teeth and gums. They are essential for detecting issues like cavities, infections, bone loss, and impacted teeth, often before you feel any symptoms.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes, very safe. We use modern digital X-rays that expose you to far less radiation than traditional film, and we use protective aprons and only take images when truly necessary.
How often should I get dental X-rays?
The frequency varies based on your dental history, risk factors, age, and past results. For new patients we often recommend a full series, followed by needed images at cleanings once or twice per year or as your dentist advises.
Do X-rays hurt?
Not at all, the process is quick, painless, and comfortable. Because we use digital sensors instead of film, there is no development wait time, and we can move directly into your exam.
Where can I get digital dental X-rays near me in Turlock?
Valley Dental Turlock uses advanced digital imaging for patients in Turlock and nearby areas like Denair, Keyes, and Ceres. Request an appointment for clearer diagnostics and more efficient care.
Creating Beautiful Smiles
For more information about our dental services and how we can help you improve your oral health and your smile, please reach out. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice!