Why digital X-rays are a safe, easy, and effective way to keep your smile healthy and happy
Why digital X-rays are a safe, easy, and effective way to keep your smile healthy and happy
Dr. Arnold Rifman has proudly served the dental care needs of individuals from across the Los Angeles area for more than 39 years. The experience and expertise of our team in Hollywood, California, is complemented by investments in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. These technologies include advanced imaging services, such as digital X-rays.
What are digital X-rays?
Traditional X-rays use films and chemicals to create images of tissues and body structures that are otherwise difficult to visualize with the unaided eye. Digital X-rays also produce images of the body that help us better understand the condition and health of these structures, but they do so by using electronic sensors. This process involves capturing and securely storing digital images on a computer.
What are the benefits of digital X-rays?
With this technique, we can instantly view, enlarge, and adjust the images. This helps our team to more accurately and easily detect potential problems and assess the state and condition of your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. Additionally, we can show – not just tell – you about problems with your teeth and other areas of your mouth and face. This supports better patient communication and education. It’s essential to understand your needs and why we may recommend specific oral care products, cleaning techniques, or treatments. You can then make the most well-informed decisions about your care, and have the confidence to move forward with treatment and any other recommended changes.
Are digital X-rays safe?
Yes! In fact, digital X-rays are associated with an 80% to 90% reduction in radiation exposure when compared to traditional film-based X-rays or radiography. It should be noted that even conventional X-rays emit minimal radiation, so we are significantly reducing exposure that is already quite low. We also take all of the necessary safeguards (such as the use of lead aprons) to further protect against the ultra-low dose radiation associated with this digital alternative.
Why would I need X-rays?
X-rays are done routinely as part of any healthy prevention and oral wellness program. They are also ordered when there is a potential problem that needs to be solved. For instance, you may seek out relief from a toothache. It is not sufficient to simply ease the symptoms. We want to get to the bottom of what is causing your toothache. X-rays can help us to understand the root cause of your tooth troubles, which then informs treatment plans that effectively target and resolve the underlying problem. Digital X-rays may uncover the likes of:
- Severe infections or abscesses
- Cysts
- Areas and signs of bone loss or resorption
- Cancers
- Benign tumors
- Interdental decay between the teeth
- Developmental challenges that require early intervention
- Poor tooth positions
- Anomalies in root positions
- Problems that require attention inside of a tooth (or below the gumline)
Will I need X-rays during every checkup?
The frequency of X-rays you receive depends on the findings from a dental exam and any signs and symptoms you may be experiencing. Ultimately, it comes down to your specific needs at a given time. Generally, new patients receive a full-mouth series of X-rays, which are valid for between three and five years. X-rays that capture the upper and lower teeth in occlusion (bite wings) are typically taken during checkups, usually once or twice a year. As true partners in your oral health, the office of Arnold Rifman DDS must monitor for any changes since your last visit. We want to stay ahead of the curve and not play catch-up. The use of technologies like digital X-rays helps to support this mission.
If you haven’t had a checkup in six months or longer or are concerned about your oral health, call 323-466-2937 to schedule your appointment in Hollywood, CA, today.
