Digital x-rays

Digital radiography (digital x-rays) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) to capture and store digital images on a computer. These images can be instantly viewed helping the dentist and hygienist detect problems easier and earlier.

Of course people are always concerned about exposure to radiation. Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation (around 80%-90% less) compared to traditional x-rays. Not only are digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, they are also faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office.

Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. The Dentists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Panoramic x-rays

The panoramic x-ray gives a broad overview of the entire mouth. This x-ray supplies information about the teeth, upper and lower jawbone, sinuses and other hard and soft tissues of the head and neck.

Dental x-rays help detect:

• Abscesses or cysts
• Bone loss
• Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
• Decay between the teeth
• Developmental abnormalities
• Poor tooth and root positions
• Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is naturally present in varying amounts in almost all foods and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 fifty years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.

One source of fluoride is called topical fluoride; it strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay. We gain topical fluoride by using fluoride containing dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses and gels. Dentists recommend that children have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.

The second source of fluoride is called systemic fluoride; it strengthens the teeth that have erupted as well as those that are developing under the gums. Although we gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies, it is sometimes not enough to help prevent decay. Your dentist may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments for the following reason:

• Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surface of teeth
• Exposed and sensitive root surfaces
• Fair to poor oral hygiene
• Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake
• Inadequate exposure to fluorides
• Inadequate saliva flow due to certain medications or medical treatments

Although fluoride helps prevent tooth decay it can not do it alone. It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks, and visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Sealants

A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. Teeth with these conditions are hard to clean and are very susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.

Reasons for sealants:

• Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16.
• Adults – Tooth surfaces without decay that has deep grooves or depressions.
• Baby teeth – Occasionally done if teeth have deep grooves and the child is cavity prone.