Digital X-rays

Digital X-rays, which replace film with an electronic sensor, require 90% less radiation dose than traditional film to produce an image. They are also eco-friendly, as no processing chemicals are required.

Radiographs are valuable diagnostic tools, detecting dental problems that are not visible during a regular dental exam. They are also used to monitor treatment progress or growth and development of the jaws in relation to the teeth. They may also reduce the risk of unnecessary dental treatment, when diagnostic uncertainties exist.

Although there is very little risk in dental X-rays, we are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which our patients are exposed. We carefully evaluate the benefit of x-ray taking for each patient, use certified digital X-ray equipment and lead aprons with protective collars to ensure safety. Our team is trained on the correct use of the equipment minimizing the need for x-ray re-takes.

Dental x-rays are one of the lowest radiation dose studies performed. A routine exam which includes 4 digital bitewings is about 0.005 mSv, which is less than one day of natural background radiation (0.008 mSv/day). It is also about the same amount of radiation exposure from a short airplane flight.