When X-rays pass through your mouth
during a dental exam, more X-rays are absorbed by the denser parts (such as
teeth and bone) than by soft tissues (such as cheeks and gums) before striking
the film. This creates an image on the radiograph. Teeth appear lighter because
fewer X-rays penetrate to reach the film. Cavities and gum disease appear
darker because of more X-ray penetration. The interpretation of these X-rays
allows the dentist to safely and accurately detect hidden abnormalities.
How often dental X-rays (radiographs)
should be taken depends on the patient`s individual health needs. It is
important to recognize that just as each patient is different from the next, so
should the scheduling of X-ray exams be individualized for each patient. Your
medical and dental history will be reviewed and your mouth examined before a
decision is made to take X-rays of your teeth.
The schedule for needing radiographs
at recall visits varies according to your age, risk for disease and signs and
symptoms. Recent films may be needed to detect new cavities, or to determine
the status of gum disease or for evaluation of growth and development. Children
may need X-rays more often than adults. This is because their teeth and jaws
are still developing and because their teeth are more likely to be affected by
tooth decay than those of adults.
At Dr.
Aki Shirakura and Associates, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of
technology to benefit our patients. We use the most up to date and safest
equipment to ensure the best care. One of the main ways we do this is
with our 3D Imaging x-rays.
What is 3D Imaging?
3D Imaging is the most efficient view of your entire mouth and
jaw. It allows us to see everything in order to diagnose you the most
accurately. Traditional dental X-rays can capture two-dimensional (2-D or
flat) views, while a 3D image captures anatomical structures with
less distortion, more clarity, and unlimited perspectives of areas of interest.
Making it the safest most accurate diagnostic method.
What is the benefit of 3D Imaging?
The most important benefit of 3D imaging is it lowers the amount
of radiation by 77% compared to traditional x-rays. It is equal to the
amount of radiation you would be exposed to on a flight from New York to
California!