Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
Digital X-Rays in London, Ontario
X-rays let us see what an exam can’t: decay between teeth and under old fillings, infection at the tip of a root, bone levels around each tooth, and teeth that haven’t come in yet. At Lunar Smile Dentistry we use digital x-rays, which need much less radiation than old film x-rays and show the image on screen within seconds.
What dental x-rays find
- Cavities between teeth, where they can’t be seen in the mouth, while they’re still small enough for a simple filling
- Decay under existing fillings and crowns
- Infection or abscesses at the root tips, which may need a root canal
- Bone loss from gum disease
- Cracks and broken roots in some cases
- Wisdom teeth and developing teeth in children and teens
- Cysts and other changes in the jaw
Many of these cause no pain until they’re advanced. Finding them early usually means simpler, less expensive treatment.
Types of x-rays we take
- Bitewings: show the crowns of your back teeth from above and below, mainly to find cavities between teeth
- Periapicals: show one or two whole teeth, from crown to root tip, to check for infection or before a root canal or extraction
- Panoramic x-ray: one wide image of your whole mouth and jaws, for wisdom teeth, implants and jaw problems
Why digital is better than film
- Less radiation: digital sensors need much less radiation than film to make a clear image
- Instant results: the image is on screen in seconds, so we can review it with you right away, with no waiting for film to develop
- Clearer detail: we can zoom in, adjust brightness and contrast, and measure, which helps us catch small problems
- Easy comparisons: we can line up this year’s image with previous ones to see changes over time
- Easy, secure sharing: images can be sent to a specialist or your insurer electronically when needed
- No chemicals: no film processing chemicals or waste
How often do you need x-rays?
It depends on you. We follow Canadian guidelines and your own risk, rather than a fixed schedule:
- people with few cavities and healthy gums may need bitewings only every couple of years
- people with frequent cavities, gum disease or lots of dental work may need them more often
- children’s x-rays depend on their age, how their teeth are developing and their cavity risk
We only take x-rays when they will change how we look after you.
Are dental x-rays safe?
The dose from a set of digital dental x-rays is very low, similar to what we all receive from natural background radiation over a day or so. We still keep it as low as possible: we use fast digital sensors, take only the images you need, and use a protective apron when appropriate. If you are or might be pregnant, tell us; we usually postpone routine x-rays, while still treating urgent problems safely.
What it’s like
We place a small, thin sensor in your mouth and you hold it still, usually by biting gently on a holder. Each image takes a moment. If you have a strong gag reflex, tell us; we can use smaller sensors, adjust the angle, or take a panoramic x-ray instead when that answers the question.
Coming from another dentist?
Recent x-rays from your previous dentist can often be sent to us electronically, so you may not need new ones at your first visit. See your first visit.
Cost and coverage
Dental x-rays are covered by most insurance plans and the Canadian Dental Care Plan, usually with limits on how often. Our fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide, and we bill your plan directly where we can.
Book a check-up
Book online or call 226-884-2573. We’re open six days a week, with evening appointments until 9 pm on weekdays.