Digital Dental X-rays and Examination

The cost of dental X-rays in Canada can vary based on several factors. These factors include the type of X-ray, the province or territory where you receive the service, and whether you have dental insurance. In Alberta, dental fee guidelines are provided by the Alberta Dental Association, which states that X-rays can cost anywhere between $30-110. At Clean Smiles Dental Hygienist Clinic, we always follow the Alberta dental fee guide to ensure pricing transparency and affordable services. 

 If you need financial help for your services, you can also check out our unique Clean Smiles for Community Program, specifically made to help make dental care accessible to everyone.

Dental professionals may recommend a wisdom teeth X-ray (panoramic or periapical) for various reasons, including:

• Assessment of Impaction: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often emerge impacted, meaning they do not fully come through the gumline. Dental x-rays can help determine the position and orientation of the teeth, whether they are impacted, and if they are causing any issues.
• Monitoring Growth: If your teeth have not yet fully erupted, dental x-rays can be used to monitor their development and assess whether they might cause future problems.
• Detection of Issues: Dental x-rays can reveal potential problems such as cysts, tumors, or infections associated with these teeth. Detecting these issues early can aid in planning for necessary treatments.
• Evaluation of Surrounding Structures: A wisdom tooth can sometimes exert pressure on an adjacent tooth, causing misalignment or damage. Dental x-rays can provide a comprehensive view of the surrounding structures, helping to assess the potential impact on neighboring teeth.
• Pre-surgical Planning: If it is determined that extraction is necessary, dental X-rays can assist in planning the surgical procedure by providing detailed information about the position of the teeth, roots, and nearby structures.
• Assessment of Pain or Discomfort: If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, dental X-rays can help identify the cause.

It’s important to note that the decision to take dental X-rays, is based on individual cases and the assessment of a dental professional. They will consider factors such as your dental history, symptoms, and clinical examination to determine if dental X-rays are necessary and what type of dental X-ray may be most appropriate for your situation. If you have concerns it’s advisable to consult with a dentist for a personalized evaluation.

The frequency of dental X-rays varies depending on the individual’s oral health status, age, risk for disease, and the presence of any symptoms or ongoing dental treatments. Here are general guidelines:

1. Adults with Good Oral Health: For adults without recent dental or gum disease, X-rays might be needed every 24 to 36 months.
2. Adults with History of Gum Disease or Cavities: More frequent X-rays, possibly every 6 to 18 months, are recommended due to the higher risk of new dental problems.
3. Children: Since children’s teeth and jaws are still developing and they are more likely to be affected by tooth decay, X-rays might be taken more frequently, typically every 6 to 12 months.

Dental professionals tailor X-ray schedules to individual needs, based on a review of the patient’s medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, age considerations, and risk for disease.

Intraoral X-rays are the most common type of dental X-ray taken. These dental X-rays provide a lot of detail and allow dentists to find cavities, check the health of the tooth root and bone surrounding the tooth, assess the status of developing teeth, and monitor the general health of your teeth and jawbone.  They can also see dental implants, periodontal disease and dental disease.  Here’s how they work:

Types of Intraoral X-rays

1. Bitewing X-rays show details of the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth. Each bitewing shows a tooth from its crown to about the level of the supporting bone. Bitewings are used primarily to check for decay between teeth and to show how well the upper and lower teeth line up. They also show bone loss when severe gum disease or a dental infection is present.

2. Periapical X-rays show the entire tooth—from the crown, through the tooth root, and into the bone that supports the tooth. These X-rays are used to find dental problems below the gum line or in the jaw, such as impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts, tumors, and bone changes linked to some diseases.

3. Occlusal X-rays track the development and placement of an entire arch of teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.

Usage

These dentall X-rays are invaluable in providing detailed images necessary for precise diagnosis and treatment planning in dentistry. They are typically used during routine dental check-ups to monitor the health of the teeth and bone and to identify problems early before they become more serious.