Dental X-Rays in Longview, WA

Advanced Diagnostic Imaging with Digital Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays are a crucial part of maintaining your oral health, providing a clear and detailed view of areas in your mouth that cannot be seen during a standard visual examination. At Advanced Dental Services in Longview, WA, Dr. Chad L. Kleven, DDS, and our skilled team use state-of-the-art digital X-ray technology to diagnose and monitor a variety of dental conditions effectively. Whether you're visiting us for a routine check-up or a specific concern, our digital X-rays help ensure that you receive the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What Are Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays are a type of imaging that allows us to see beyond the surface of your teeth and gums. These images reveal the condition of your tooth roots, jawbone, and the spaces between your teeth, helping us detect issues like cavities, infections, and bone loss that might not be visible during a regular dental exam.

Types of Dental X-Rays We Offer

• Digital X-Rays:
  Digital X-rays are the modern standard in dental imaging. Unlike traditional film X-rays, digital X-rays use electronic sensors to capture images, which are then instantly displayed on a computer screen. This method is not only faster and more efficient but also reduces radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional X-rays.
• Bitewing X-Rays:
  Bitewing X-rays capture the upper and lower teeth in one part of the mouth, focusing on the areas where cavities are most likely to form. These images are essential for detecting decay between teeth and assessing the bone level around each tooth.
• Periapical X-Rays:
  These X-rays provide a detailed view of one or two teeth, from the crown to the root. Periapical X-rays are particularly useful for diagnosing issues such as abscesses, cysts, or impacted teeth.
• Panoramic X-Rays:
  Panoramic X-rays capture the entire mouth in a single image, including the teeth, jaw, sinuses, and surrounding structures. This type of X-ray is often used for planning treatments such as dental implants, orthodontics, and extractions.

Benefits of Digital X-Rays

• Reduced Radiation Exposure: Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays, making them a safer option for patients, especially those who require frequent imaging.
• Instant Results: The images are available immediately on our computer screens, allowing for quicker diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Enhanced Image Quality: Digital X-rays provide clear, high-resolution images that can be magnified and adjusted for better visibility of specific areas, improving diagnostic accuracy.
• Environmentally Friendly: Digital X-rays eliminate the need for film and chemical processing, reducing waste and environmental impact.

Why Are Dental X-Rays Important?

Dental X-rays play a vital role in preventive care and early detection. Some dental problems can develop silently without noticeable symptoms until they become more severe. Regular X-rays help us:

• Detect Cavities Early: X-rays reveal decay that isn’t visible to the naked eye, particularly between teeth and under existing restorations.
• Monitor Bone Health: X-rays help us assess the health of your jawbone and detect any signs of bone loss, which is important for diagnosing conditions like periodontal disease and planning for dental implants.
• Identify Infections: X-rays can detect abscesses, cysts, and other infections in the tooth roots or jawbone that may require prompt treatment.
• Plan Effective Treatments: Whether you need a filling, root canal, or dental implant, X-rays provide the detailed information necessary for precise and effective treatment planning.

What to Expect During Your Dental X-Ray Appointment

At Advanced Dental Services, we make the X-ray process as quick and comfortable as possible:

• Preparation: Before taking the X-ray, you’ll be asked to wear a lead apron to protect your body from radiation exposure. The dental assistant will position the X-ray sensor in your mouth, which may require you to bite down gently.
• Image Capture: The digital sensor captures the image in just a few seconds. Depending on your needs, several X-rays may be taken from different angles.
• Immediate Review: Once the images are taken, they are instantly available on our computer screens, allowing Dr. Kleven to review them with you and discuss any findings.

Why Choose Advanced Dental Services for Dental X-Rays?

At Advanced Dental Services, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and the accuracy of your diagnosis. Our use of advanced digital X-ray technology ensures that you receive the highest standard of care with minimal radiation exposure. Dr. Kleven’s experience in general and preventive dentistry, combined with our commitment to patient-centered care, means that you can trust us to provide thorough and accurate diagnostic services.

Explore our other preventive services, including dental cleanings and exams and fluoride treatments and sealants, to maintain your oral health.