Digital X-rays and Dental Examination
What are dental x-Rays?
Dental X-rays, also known as radiographs, provide detailed internal images of your teeth, periodontal structure and jaws. They are a valuable tool that dentists use to investigate structures that may not be visible during a regular dental check-up. These X-rays reveal essential information about your jawbone, nerve pathways, sinuses, and the roots of your teeth.
What happens at a dental x-ray consultation?
Preparation: A lead apron will be given to a patient to protect them against radiation exposure. Appropriate dental equipment is selected.
Positioning: The X-ray machine is positioned to capture images of the specific area of interest in the mouth.
X-ray exposure: A small film or sensor is placed around the area to be examined. The X-ray machine is activated to achieve the image.
Image capture: The X-ray images are quickly digitally captured and shown on a computer screen in seconds.
Image analysis: Dentists analyze the digital X-rays to detect problems such as cavities, infections, bone abnormalities, or impacted teeth.
Digital X-rays:
Preparation: A lead apron will be given to a patient to be protected against radiation exposure. Appropriate dental equipment is selected.
Positioning: The X-ray machine is positioned to capture images of the specific area of interest in the mouth.
X-ray exposure: A small film or sensor is placed around the area to be examined. The X-ray machine is activated to achieve the image.
Image capture: The X-ray images are quickly digitally captured and shown on a computer screen in seconds.
Image analysis: Dentists analyze the digital X-rays to detect problems such as cavities, infections, bone abnormalities, or impacted teeth.
Dental Examination:
Medical history: The dentist reviews the patient’s medical history.
Intra oral examination: Examination of the mouth’s internal structures, including teeth, gums, soft tissues, tongue, and the palate, to diagnose dental and oral health conditions will be done.
Visual inspection: The dentist visually examines the patient’s mouth, gums, and teeth for signs of decay, damage, or abnormalities.
Dental instruments: Specialized tools like probes and mirrors are used to assess the health of teeth and gums.
X-rays: If necessary, digital X-rays are taken to get a more detailed view of dental issues.
Gum health: The dentist checks for gum disease, assessing factors like gum color, bleeding, and pocket depth.
Bite and alignment: The dentist evaluates the patient’s bite and tooth alignment, looking for issues like misalignment or bite problems. A digital scan will be taken at this step of the exam.
Oral cancer screening: A thorough examination includes a check for signs of oral cancer, such as unusual lumps or sores.
How much do dental x rays cost in Canada?
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.
When do you need a wisdom teeth xray?
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. X-rays can help determine the position and orientation of the wisdom teeth, whether they are impacted, and if they are causing any issues.
- Monitoring Growth: If your wisdom teeth have not yet fully erupted, X-rays can be used to monitor their development and assess whether they might cause future problems.
- Detection of Issues: X-rays can reveal potential problems such as cysts, tumors, or infections associated with the wisdom teeth. Detecting these issues early can aid in planning for necessary treatments.
- Evaluation of Surrounding Structures: Wisdom teeth can sometimes exert pressure on adjacent teeth, causing misalignment or damage. 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, 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, X-rays can help identify the cause, which may be related to the wisdom teeth.
It’s important to note that the decision to take X-rays, including those for wisdom teeth, 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 X-rays are necessary and what type of X-ray may be most appropriate for your situation. If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth or dental health in general, it’s advisable to consult with a dentist for a personalized evaluation.
Dental x-ray services in Edmonton
If you experience any sort of pain or swelling in your teeth or gums that’s when you need to get it checked. If you are looking for a good dental clinic, clean smiles dental hygiene clinic, Edmonton North has professional dentists who will thoroughly examine your oral health, guide and treat you accordingly. Call us at 780 800 6655 or book online.
Other services
Book Your Appointment
We will contact you shortly to schedule your appointment
