Dental X-rays in Kew
One of the main diagnostic tools we utilise at Willsmere Dental is dental X-rays. Taking X-rays is the process we use to obtain images of your teeth, but the images are called radiographs. Radiographs serve as a valuable diagnostic tool.
How often you need to come in for periodic radiographs depends on many factors. These include your age, prior history and particular dental conditions.
Why We Take Dental X-rays
A visual inspection of your teeth and gums isn’t enough. We use X-rays as a starting point for a detailed dental treatment plan to address any issues indicated by the radiographs. X-ray images can reveal various conditions that include the following:
- Decay between teeth or under existing fillings
- Gum disease
- Bone infections
- Abscesses
- Tumors
- Problems with teeth formation
By identifying these types of problems in their early stages, you can save pain and money. Moreover, discovering serious conditions, such as tumors, could save your life.
Types of Dental X-Rays
There are several types of traditional dental X-rays that are taken inside the mouth. We’ll determine the type you need and will never recommend more images than are required. The types of X-rays we offer include:
Bitewing X-rays – usually taken during all first appointments and periodically afterwards. These X-rays can help identify cavities between teeth and show the area of your top and bottom teeth, from the crown to the jaw.
Periapical X-rays – show the entire tooth, including the root and bone, to determine whether an abscess, impacted tooth or bone damage from gum disease is present.
Occlusal X-rays – reveal the floor and roof of the mouth and are taken from a position of looking down from the nose or up from the chin. Occlusal X-rays are used to locate additional teeth or teeth that have not yet erupted. These X-rays also can identify the presence of abscesses, jaw fractures or different types of growths, such as cysts.
Now Offering OPG (Orthopantomogram) X-rays
At Willsmere Dental, we always endeavour to provide our patients with the most modern services possible. One of the ways we do that is through our OPG X-ray technology.
An OPG X-ray is a panoramic (wide view) X-ray of the lower part of the face (including the TMJ (temporomandibular joint), which displays all the teeth of the upper and lower jaw on a single film. An OPG X-ray image shows the number, position and growth of all the teeth, including those that haven’t surfaced yet.
A digital OPG X-ray is particularly helpful in planning orthodontic treatment. That’s because this type of imaging provides a full overview of the teeth, and shows teeth that are impacted or haven’t erupted.
Here are some other benefits of OPG X-rays:
- The radiation dose is low
- These X-rays can be used in those who are restricted in opening their mouth
- An image can be produced within seconds of the X-ray being taken
Contact Us Today
Not sure when you had X-rays taken last? Just give our dental office a call to determine whether you’re due (or long overdue) for a new set.
We care about your dental health and want to help ensure you have a healthy smile for a lifetime. X-rays can help us pinpoint any potential issues before they advance into potentially serious and more costly problems.
Contact Us
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
