RJ Dental

Digital X-Rays

Of the many technological advances in dentistry over the last few decades, the advent and adoption of digital x- rays may be the most significant. Digital x-rays have changed the way we practice dentistry because they allow us to provide dental care more efficiently and with reduced exposure times.

Speed of care

While it still takes the same amount of time to prepare a crown or fabricate a temporary crown, the use of digital x-rays, however, does reduce the overall time our patients have to spend in the chair. In the past we had to wait 3-5 minutes for an x-ray to be processed, while with digital x-rays, the image appears instantly for us to read and evaluate. And in a procedure where multiple films may be needed such as with a root canal or an extraction, the time can add up.

Safety

We understand that the thought of taking x-rays can provoke anxiety. Fortunately, digital x-rays reduce radiation risk significantly because the exposure time is much lower compared to traditional films. And even with digital x- ray technology, we still try to minimize the number of x-rays that we take, and we only take films when necessary. It's also important to note that some people require more x-rays than other people because some people have a higher cavity rate, a dry mouth, or a history of significant dental treatment in the past with multiple crowns and other restorations.

Panoramic X-Rays

A Panoramic X-Ray (or "Pan") is a type of x-ray where we take a broad view of the jawbones. These x-rays are taken in many clinical situations including when we want to:

  • a) evaluate the progress of tooth eruption (and to see if any teeth are missing)
  • b) to determine the position (and/or presence) of wisdom teeth
  • c) to ensure that there is no pathology (cysts, infections, etc.) in the jawbones.
  • d) to help plan implant treatment (though for implant treatment we often use a cone-beam).

Get In Touch With Us Today

Call us or contact us at 201-837-6666 to schedule an appointment in Teaneck, NJ or 908-241-6455 for an appointment in Roselle, NJ