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Dental X-rays let your dentist catch potential problems like cavities, gum disease, and infected tooth pulp in the early stages before they worsen. At Rainier Dental in Bonney Lake, Puyallup, Sumner, and Tacoma, Washington, the team of skilled dentists uses dental X-rays and other dental scans to examine teeth and gums and ensure optimal oral health. Call Rainier Dental today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.
Dental X-Rays Q&A
Are dental X-rays necessary if my teeth and gums look healthy?
Yes. Dental X-rays provide internal images of your teeth and jaws. They let your Rainier Dental provider identify potentially serious problems, like cavities, bone loss, and infected tooth pulp. Many of these issues develop slowly and present few symptoms. Routine X-ray imaging helps catch them early on so you can receive treatment before they affect your oral health.
Are there different types of dental X-rays?
Yes. The Rainier Dental team offers several types of dental X-rays and oral scans, including:
Intraoral X-rays
Intraoral X-rays use digital sensors and other cutting-edge technology to capture photos of the inside of your mouth.
There are several types of intraoral X-rays, including bitewing, periapical, and occlusal X-rays. These X-rays identify decay between your teeth and problems below your gum line.
Extraoral X-rays
Extraoral X-rays use film or digital sensors outside your mouth to gain insights into your oral health. The Rainier Dental team offers several types of extraoral X-rays, including panoramic, cephalometric, and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). These X-rays identify problems with your teeth, jaws, nerves, and sinuses.
Digital dental scans
Digital dental scans help your Rainier Dental provider take impressions of your teeth or jaws without putty. These scans are quicker and more convenient than traditional dental impressions.
Are dental X-rays safe?
All dental X-rays emit small amounts of radiation. While this can present risks, it’s no more dangerous than the radiation emitted by electronics like TVs, smartphones, and computers.
The Rainier Dental team follows all recommended safety precautions for dental X-rays. Before taking any scans, they put a led apron over your chest and abdomen to protect your internal organs.
Let the team know if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. This won’t necessarily prevent you from undergoing dental X-rays, but your provider might decide to wait until you give birth or finish weaning your baby. You should also let them know if you have any metal implants, like an artificial joint or a pacemaker.
How long does it take to get the results of dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays use digital sensors to capture photos of your tooth roots and jaw, so the pictures develop instantly. After your Rainier Dental provider reviews them, they explain any areas of concern and make personalized treatment recommendations.
Call the nearest Rainier Dental office today to schedule dental X-rays, or book your appointment online.