Digital bitewing x-rays are the digital form of the most common form of dental x-rays today. They show both the upper and lower teeth, as well as how the teeth touch each other in a single view. Bitewing x-rays, long a necessary and standard part of regular dental checkups, are now available in digital form.
Providing us with nearly the same valuable information about a variety of oral conditions as the standard x-rays, digital bitewing x-rays may reveal the following conditions: Decay between the teeth; Abscesses or cysts; Tartar on the tooth roots; Worn-out, or broken fillings or crowns; Receding bone levels (bone loss) resulting from periodontal disease or infection; Broken tooth roots; Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors; Poor tooth and root positions; Developmental abnormalities; and problems that may be inside a tooth or below the gum line.
Compared to traditional dental x-rays, not only are digital bitewing x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient as well as the dental technician, they are faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment. Because they do not require any processing, these images are instantly viewable, and can be enlarged if necessary, making it easier for your dentist to detect any potential problems.
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. A major benefit of digital bitewing x-rays
is that the radiation both you and the dental technicians are exposed to is dramatically lower than the already low radiation of the traditional dental x-rays?up to 80% lower!
Before any x-ray, make sure you tell the dental professional if you are or might be pregnant. Though dental x-rays are only taken in the area of your mouth, routine dental x-rays may be postponed so as to avoid the risk of any possible radiation to your unborn child. If dental x-rays are absolutely necessary, a lead apron will be placed over your abdomen to shield your baby from any excess x-ray radiation.
A dental technician will cover you with a heavy lead apron to protect your body as you sit comfortably in your chair. The lead apron is to protect you from the x-rays; most aprons also have a collar to protect your thyroid gland from radiation.
Everyone present in the room either wears a protective apron or stands behind a protective shield.
The dental technician then carefully positions a small sensor inside your mouth so that it lines up properly to get the digital bitewing x-ray images of your upper and lower teeth at the same time.
That's all there is to it! Digital bitewing x-rays make it easier and more comfortable than ever to get much better views of your teeth and potential dental conditions, allowing us to plan the best course of treatment or overall health management for you. Thus saving you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and possibly, your teeth.
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