Digital X-Rays In San Jose, CA: Your Care Guide
Digital X-Rays in San Jose, CA, are part of everyday care at My AZ Dental, helping patients in San Jose, California receive accurate diagnoses with minimal radiation. This page explains how digital dental radiography works, why it is used, and what to expect during a visit.
Digital X-Rays Explained
Digital X-Rays use electronic sensors to capture images of your teeth and jaws. Instead of film, a small sensor records the image, which appears on a computer screen within seconds. The dentist can adjust contrast and magnification to study details that may not be visible during a visual exam. This technology supports early detection of decay, bone loss, infections, and other conditions beneath the surface.
Common types include bitewing images for cavity detection between teeth, periapical images for roots and surrounding bone, and panoramic images that show the entire mouth and jaw. Each image type answers different clinical questions and helps plan treatment safely and efficiently.
Benefits Of Digital X-Rays
- Radiation Exposure Is Lower Compared With Traditional Film.
- Images Are Immediate, Which Can Shorten Appointments.
- Enhanced Detail Improves Detection Of Cavities, Cracks, And Infections.
- Digital Files Make Comparison Over Time Simple And Secure.
- No Chemical Developers Are Needed, Which Reduces Environmental Waste.
- Images Can Be Shown Chairside To Help You Understand Findings.
How Digital X-Rays Work
The sensor is placed gently in your mouth while the X-Ray unit is positioned beside your cheek. You remain still for a second or less while the image is taken. For panoramic images, you stand or sit while the machine circles your head. Most patients find the process quick and comfortable.
Dental teams follow strict safety standards. A lead apron and a thyroid collar are often used as a precaution. The dose from a set of digital bitewings is typically very low, and frequency depends on your cavity risk, age, and oral health history. Many adults with higher risk may need bitewings every 6 to 18 months, while those at lower risk may need them less often. Your dentist will tailor the schedule to your needs.
Your Digital X-Ray Experience
Expect a short appointment segment for imaging, usually completed before your exam or cleaning. The team will review your medical history, ask about recent X-Rays, and confirm if you are pregnant or could be pregnant. If you are expecting, essential dental X-Rays can still be taken with protective measures, but timing and necessity will be reviewed carefully.
After images are taken, they are displayed on a monitor so you can see what the dentist sees. Findings are explained using clear visuals. If a problem is found, digital images help guide treatment planning, such as fillings, root canal therapy, or periodontal care.
Understanding Your Options
Different X-Ray views answer different questions:
- Bitewing Images Help Detect Decay Between Teeth And Monitor Bone Levels.
- Periapical Images Show The Full Tooth And Root To Check For Infection Or Fractures.
- Panoramic Images Capture The Entire Jaw To Evaluate Wisdom Teeth, Joints, And Sinus Areas.
Ask about the purpose of each image, radiation exposure, and how often images are recommended for you. These are common searches patients make, including “what is a digital dental X-Ray,” “how do dental X-Rays work,” “benefits of digital X-Rays,” “are dental X-Rays safe,” “bitewing vs panoramic,” and “how often are dental X-Rays needed.”
What To Expect
- Preparation Is Minimal, And No Fasting Is Required.
- The Sensor May Feel Firm, But Most Images Take Only A Moment.
- You Will Wear A Lead Apron And Often A Thyroid Collar For Protection.
- Results Are Reviewed Immediately, With Clear Explanations Of Any Findings.
- Follow-Up Imaging Is Scheduled Based On Your Risk Level And Treatment Plan.
If you have concerns about radiation or comfort, tell the team before imaging begins. Adjustments can improve comfort and reduce gag reflex, such as using smaller sensors or alternative angles when appropriate.