Digital Dental X-Rays In East Lansing, Michigan: Your Dental Detective

You might think of an X-ray as a dental detective, as it magnifies what the eye can’t see, exposing tooth decay that hides between teeth, under the gumline, or fillings and caps. An X-ray can also reveal bone loss caused by gum disease, abscesses, cysts, tumors, and even early signs of cancer. Our rule of thumb?

X-rays have been an essential part of dentistry for decades. Taking these images allows us, your dentist in East Lansing, to diagnose and treat problems accurately. Without them, it would be impossible for our team to see inside and between your teeth, areas not visible during your routine dental exam!

How do we take digital X-rays?

For dental patients, taking a digital X-ray is similar to taking a film X-ray. We’ll adjust the X-ray machine to the correct position to capture a specific part of your mouth. An X-ray is a standard procedure for new patients' first exam.

Types of digital X-rays:

Bitewings: You’ll bite down on a special paper. This X-ray is taken on either side of the mouth – two on the left side and two on the right side. The X-ray shows us how well your teeth match up. It’s ideal for detecting cavities in between teeth.
Occlusal: Taken with a closed jaw, the occlusal X-ray reveals how your top and bottom teeth line up. It can also show us abnormalities in the mouth floor and the palate. If you wear dentures or a retainer, we will remove them before taking the X-ray. If you wear eyeglasses, you’ll need to take them off. Again, we flip a switch, and before you know it, the X-ray is done!
Periapical: This X-ray focuses on two complete teeth, crown to root.
Full-Mouth: This technology uses 18 films, captures the inside of your entire mouth.

Is everyone a candidate for this service?

Although most patients are candidates for digital X-rays, not everyone is! Children, adults, and seniors requiring evaluations for cavities, infections, and bite issues are ideal. Alternative imaging techniques may be necessary for people with certain electronic medical implants, such as cochlear implants or pacemakers, to prevent possible interference from the electromagnetic fields produced by digital X-ray machines.

Pregnant patients should speak with our dentist about alternative X-ray solutions. Our dentists evaluate each patient's individual health profile and medical history to choose the most efficient imaging method.

Are dental X-rays digital?

Yes, at East Lansing Modern Dental, we exclusively use digital dental X-rays. These advanced imaging techniques offer superior clarity and efficiency compared to traditional X-rays, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.

Are digital X-rays les expensive?

While initial costs may vary, digital X-rays offer long-term cost-effectiveness. They reduce the need for retakes and chemical processing, contributing to a more eco-friendly and efficient dental practice.

How did X-ray technology evolve?

X-rays were first discovered in the late 1800s by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, a university professor in Germany. One of his first experiments – using the power of electromagnetic radiation – was to X-ray his wife’s hand. However, the first real use of an X-ray was for industrial purposes – Roentgen developed a radiograph of weights in a box.

Fast forward nearly 100 years later… It wasn’t until the mid-1980s that digital dental X-rays first appeared on the clinical scene. Nearly all dental practices today rely on digital imaging to take their patients’ X-rays as it offers many important advantages.

In short, digital radiography is highly accurate, fast, efficient, clean, and safe to use. If you have questions about your “dental detective,” ask us, your dentist in East Lansing! Contact Us at (517) 210-0428 today!

Contact East Lansing Modern Dental About Digital X-Rays Today!

Emits less radiation than traditional x-rays
Instant viewing for quicker diagnosis
High-quality X-ray images
Eco-friendly service with no paper storage
Empower and stay informed on your oral health!

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