Using dental cone beam computed tomography (CT) is a special type of x-ray equipment that our office uses when regular dental or facial x-rays are not sufficient. With use of this technology, we are able to:
- accurately place dental implants
- determine bone structure and tooth orientation
- x-ray with reduction of scatter radiation, resulting in better image quality
- provide more information that conventional dental x-ray, allowing for more precise treatment planning
- provide a painless, noninvasive and accurate scan
- image bone and soft tissue at the same time
with absolute certainty, and instantaneous results.
Dental X-rays are a useful diagnostic tool when helping Dr. Goldstein detect damage and disease not visible during a regular dental exam. How often X-rays should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease. For example, children may require X-rays more often than adults because their teeth and jaws are still developing and their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults. Dr. Goldstein will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether or not you need X-rays.
If you are a new patient, Dr. Goldstein may recommend X-rays to determine the present status of your oral health and have a baseline to help identify changes that may occur later. A new set of X-rays may be needed to help your dentist detect any new cavities, determine the status of your gum health or evaluate the growth and development of your teeth. If a previous dentist has any radiographs of you, Dr. Goldstein may ask you for copies of them.
Dental X-ray exams are safe; however, they do require very low levels of radiation exposure, which makes the risk of potentially harmful effects very small. Dental X-ray tools and techniques are designed to limit the body’s exposure to radiation and every precaution is taken to ensure that radiation exposure is As Low As Reasonable Achievable (the ALARA principle). A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and may be used when it will not interfere with acquisition of the dental radiograph.
Are you pregnant? Make sure to tell us. During your pregnancy, you may need to have X-rays taken as part of your treatment plan for a dental disease. Use of the leaded apron and thyroid collar will protect you and your fetus from radiation exposure. Dental X-rays do not need to be delayed if you are trying to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.