• Digital X-Rays

  • 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.

    Why should I have digital X-ray images taken?

     

    Establish Medical History

    When you are a new patient, the dentist may want to have digital X-ray images taken of your mouth to get a better idea of your present oral health status. This sets up a base level the dentist can reference later to better identify changes.  

    Uncover Issues

    Though you might not notice anything unusual, digital X-ray images may catch an issue that is going on in your teeth or jaw. Early detection is helpful in treating problems and may result in your health being improved sooner and potentially more cost effective.

    Diagnose

    Images generated from digital X-rays can be great tools for the dentist to better diagnose problems you may be experiencing or catch an issue before it becomes a larger problem. X-ray imaging can find problems early on, which can help you avoid more drastic and expensive procedures later.

    These images can uncover:

    • Tooth decay hidden by fillings
    • Bone infections
    • Cavities between teeth
    • Periodontal disease
    • Tumors
    • Cysts or abscesses  

    How do I know if I should have a digital X-ray image taken?

    The dentist will look at your medical history, disease risk, age, and symptoms to determine how often you should have digital X-ray images taken.

    If you are ready to look into having digital X-ray images taken, go ahead and give Dr. Zelikow a call at (773) 348-3309 to set up an appointment. His office is easy to get to in Chicago and offers the premiere dental care of IL area. Let Dr. Zelikow show you why patients have been coming back for years. Proper upkeep and maintenance of your oral health is his top priority!