Digital X-Rays & 3D Imaging

Our Imaging Technology

At Redwater Dental Clinic in Redwater, AB, we use state-of-the-art digital X-ray and 3D imaging technology to provide the most accurate diagnoses possible. Digital imaging allows us to see things that are invisible to the naked eye, including cavities between teeth, bone loss from gum disease, infections at the root of a tooth, and the position of developing or impacted teeth.

Our digital X-ray systems produce images instantly on a computer screen, eliminating the wait time associated with traditional film X-rays. The images are high-resolution and can be enhanced, zoomed, and adjusted to reveal details that might otherwise be missed. Most importantly, digital X-rays use up to 80% less radiation than conventional film X-rays, making them safer for patients of all ages.

Types of Dental X-Rays

We use several types of X-rays at Redwater Dental Clinic, each serving a specific diagnostic purpose:

Bitewing X-Rays: These are the most common type of dental X-ray. They show the upper and lower back teeth in a single image and are used to detect cavities between teeth, check the fit of existing restorations, and monitor bone levels. Bitewing X-rays are typically taken once a year during your routine checkup.

Periapical X-Rays: These show the entire tooth from crown to root tip, including the surrounding bone. They are used to diagnose problems at the root of a tooth, such as infections, abscesses, cysts, or fractures. Periapical X-rays are commonly taken when investigating tooth pain or planning procedures like root canals.

Panoramic X-Rays (Panorex): A panoramic X-ray captures the entire mouth in a single image, including all teeth, the upper and lower jaws, sinuses, and jaw joints. This type of X-ray is useful for evaluating wisdom teeth, planning orthodontic treatment, assessing jaw disorders, and getting a comprehensive overview of your oral health. The machine rotates around your head, so there is nothing placed inside your mouth.

Intraoral Camera Images: While not technically an X-ray, our intraoral cameras capture detailed photographs of individual teeth and areas of the mouth. These images help us show you exactly what we see and explain recommended treatments in a way that is easy to understand.

3D Cone Beam Imaging

Redwater Dental Clinic is equipped with a 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scanner, one of the most advanced diagnostic tools available in modern dentistry. This technology creates detailed three-dimensional images of your teeth, jawbone, nerve pathways, and surrounding soft tissues in a single scan that takes just 20 to 40 seconds.

3D cone beam imaging provides information that traditional 2D X-rays simply cannot. It allows us to view your anatomy from any angle and in any cross-section, giving us an unparalleled level of detail for complex cases. We use 3D imaging for:

• Planning dental implant placement with precision, including measuring bone density and volume
• Evaluating impacted or difficult wisdom teeth before extraction
• Diagnosing jaw joint disorders and TMJ problems
• Detecting infections, cysts, or tumors in the jaw
• Assessing complex root canal anatomy before treatment
• Planning orthodontic treatment and evaluating airway issues
• Supporting oral cancer screenings with detailed tissue views

Having 3D imaging in-house means you do not need to be referred to a separate imaging centre. Everything is done right here at our Redwater, AB clinic, saving you time and allowing us to plan your treatment faster.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Yes, dental X-rays are very safe. The amount of radiation from a digital dental X-ray is extremely low. To put it in perspective, a single digital bitewing X-ray exposes you to less radiation than you receive from natural background sources during a single day. A full set of digital dental X-rays produces less radiation than a short airplane flight.

At Redwater Dental Clinic, we follow the ALARA principle, which stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable." This means we only take X-rays when there is a clear diagnostic benefit, and we use the lowest possible radiation dose. Additional safety measures include:

• Lead aprons and thyroid collars to shield sensitive areas
• Digital sensors that require significantly less radiation than traditional film
• Modern equipment that is regularly inspected and calibrated
• Careful patient assessment to determine which X-rays are truly needed

For pregnant patients, we generally postpone routine X-rays until after delivery as a precaution. However, in emergency situations, dental X-rays can be taken safely with proper shielding. We will always discuss the risks and benefits with you before proceeding.

How Often Do I Need X-Rays?

The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your individual oral health needs. As a general guideline:

• Bitewing X-rays: Once a year for most adults; more frequently for patients with a history of cavities
• Panoramic X-rays: Every 3 to 5 years, or as needed for specific diagnostic purposes
• New patients: A full set of X-rays or a panoramic X-ray at your first visit to establish a baseline
• Children: More frequently during periods of active dental development to monitor incoming teeth
• 3D scans: As needed for implant planning, complex extractions, or other specific procedures

Our dentists at Redwater Dental Clinic will recommend X-rays based on your specific situation, taking into account your age, oral health history, risk factors, and any current symptoms. We never take X-rays unnecessarily. If you have recent X-rays from another dental office, we are happy to review them. Call us at 780-942-4691 or request an appointment online.