Say farewell to traditional radiographs and welcome the era of digital X-rays. These digital images are a revolutionary advancement that enhances diagnostic accuracy but also places patient safety at the forefront of our services. At RB Dental Excellence, our Rancho Bernardo team has integrated digital X-rays because they allow for the highest standard of care while minimizing radiation levels and maximizing diagnostic insights.
The world of diagnostics relied on conventional X-rays for many years. X-rays are a valuable tool that allows dentists to diagnose various oral health conditions, such as:
However, traditional X-rays require the use of film and chemical processing, which can be time-consuming and contribute to environmental waste. They also add several minutes onto the length of most dental appointments because of how long they take to process (or re-take, when applicable.) But most notably, traditional X-rays require a higher level of radiation compared to today’s digital imaging tools.
Digital X-rays use transformative technology that has redefined the landscape of dental diagnostics. Unlike traditional X-rays, which rely on film to capture images, digital X-rays use a special sensor to capture high-resolution images of the teeth and surrounding oral structures. This shift from analog to digital images not only eliminates the need for film, processing times, and chemicals but also reduces radiation exposure by up to 80-90%, ensuring the highest level of patient safety without compromising diagnostic quality. While dental X-rays have always used minimal radiation—conventional types expose you to less radiation than you would come into contact with on an airplane flight—today’s resources are even lower.
The world of digital X-rays is not just limited to convenience and safety—it’s also characterized by innovation. In Rancho Bernardo, at RB Dental Excellence, patients can experience the latest advancements in digital radiography, including the incorporation of panoramic and 3D cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.
Panoramic X-rays provide a comprehensive view of the entire mouth, capturing a single image that displays the upper and lower jaws, teeth, temporomandibular joints, and sinus cavities. This panoramic view is invaluable for identifying issues such as impacted wisdom teeth, dental infections, and jawbone irregularities.
On the other hand, 3D CBCT scans take diagnostic precision to a new level. By generating three-dimensional images of the oral structures, CBCT scans enable dentists to assess anatomical relationships, identify hidden problems, and plan complex procedures with unparalleled accuracy. From implant placement to orthodontic planning, CBCT scans offer a comprehensive insight into the patient’s oral health.
Digital X-Rays at RB Dental Excellence helps ensure that each diagnostic procedure is conducted with the utmost precision and care. Just as important, the immediate availability of digital images allows for real-time evaluation and discussion with our patients. We are able to enlarge images on the monitor to show you exactly what we see in your mouth, something that wasn’t possible with tiny conventional X-rays. This interactive approach fosters a deeper understanding of your oral health needs and treatment options, empowering you to make better informed decisions about your dental care journey.
Incorporating 3D images like CBCT scans also expand the types of treatments available. For example, we can digitally map out the placement of dental implants in someone who might not otherwise qualify for implant treatment.
RB Dental Excellence in Rancho Bernardo incorporates diagnostic X-rays to screen for concerns while they’re smaller and more affordable to treat. Early intervention minimizes the extent of care you need and helps prevent painful dental emergencies. That’s why we take a baseline series of X-rays on every new patient and periodic images about once a year to routinely check for changes in your smile.
If it’s been six months or longer since your last dental exam, schedule your checkup today. Call our Rancho Bernardo office now to request an appointment.
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