Digital X-Rays
It’s almost impossible to imagine the practice of dentistry without x-ray technology because it helps your family dentist diagnose conditions that can’t be seen with the naked eye, including tooth decay, gum disease, abscesses, and abnormal growths. Since the first x-rays became available a century ago, this diagnostic tool has saved countless teeth, but now new state-of-the-art digital x-rays provide more dental care benefits and are safer too.
Advantages of Digital X-Rays
When digital x-rays first became available about 20 years ago, they immediately offered a host of advantages over traditional x-ray film. Bluff Creek Dental is committed to using the latest technology to provide the best and safest dental care for you and your family, and that is why we actively utilize digital x-rays in our Chanhassen office.
Comfort
Gone are the days of the bulky x-ray film that pinched the inside of your mouth. Digital x-ray technology uses a small electronic sensor placed in your mouth to capture images. Due to its size, the digital sensor causes no discomfort when your family dentist takes the x-rays.
Much Quicker and Safer for the Environment
Since there is no film to process, you don’t have to wait for the pictures to be developed. Your family dentist will be able to immediately show you the pictures on a computer screen for easy viewing. And, since there is no chemical processing to develop the pictures, there are no toxic chemicals to dispose of, which is safer for the environment.
Much Clearer Pictures
Digital x-rays create sharper and clearer images—providing your family dentist with the best possible information about the condition of your teeth and gums. The images can be enhanced by increasing or decreasing the contrast, and their magnification capability can make areas of concern much easier to see. Your dentist will also be able to look at your current and previous x-rays in a side-by-side comparison, making even small changes to your teeth and gums easier to detect.
Easy Sharing and Storage
In addition to providing you and your family dentist a better visual for your diagnosis and treatment options, digital x-rays can be emailed to other locations, if for example you are referred to a specialist for treatment. Additionally, digital x-rays are easier to store than x-ray film, ensuring that your pictures are not misplaced.
Safer than Traditional X-Rays
Digital x-ray technology has cut the amount of radiation exposure to dental patients by as much as 90%, which is the lowest radiation dose possible. While digital technology has significantly minimized the health risks of exposure to radiation, it has not eliminated it entirely. That’s why we will only use x-rays when the benefit of obtaining better diagnostic information outweighs the small risk of exposure.
Make an Appointment at Bluff Creek Dental in Chanhassen, MN
At Bluff Creek Dental, you can be assured that your safety is always paramount to us. If you have any questions or concerns about digital x-rays or your dental care, please feel free to ask your family dentist at our Chanhassen office. Schedule your next appointment now!