Digital x-rays
Dental x-rays (dental radiographs) allow dentists to see issues that are otherwise hidden during a visual examination.
They can show:
- the bone levels around the teeth, providing insights into the patient’s gum health
- the presence of decay, especially between the teeth or hidden under fillings and crowns
- the number and shape of tooth roots, knowledge which is essential for root canal treatment and tooth extractions
- possible infections at the root tip of a tooth
- unerupted teeth, including wisdom teeth
- how well dental implants have anchored to the bone
- pathology in the jawbone, like cysts
- the sinuses.
Less radiation, faster images with digital x-rays
Many people are concerned that when they have dental x-rays, they might be putting their health at risk due to exposure to x-radiation.
This is our approach to dental radiography at Richmond Road Dental:
- We only take x-rays when they are necessary for diagnosis or treatment.
- We use low-dose digital x-ray systems that give instant images for our dentists to assess whilst minimising the patient’s radiation exposure.
The infographic below shows exposure to radiation under various circumstances. You can see that standard dental x-rays carry very little exposure risk.
See what your dentist is seeing on your x-ray images
Thanks to our digital x-ray systems, our dentists can display x-ray images on large screens so patients can see what’s happening beneath their teeth and gums.
Occasionally, we may require a larger radiographic image of the entire jaw bones and teeth and will refer you to a local x-ray clinic for a full-mouth orthopantomogram (or OPG).
Important to know
- This page contains general information about digital x-rays. It cannot replace individualised advice from your dental practitioner. Please consult your dentist for specific recommendations about your oral health and necessary treatments.
Make an appointment with one of our dentists.
Time for a thorough dental check-up? Please contact our friendly reception team to make an appointment.
Resources about digital x-rays
Learn more about digital dental x-rays
- Dental x-rays (Opens in a new tab) – An article by the Australian Dental Association
Videos about dental x-rays
Dental x-rays
A short animated video about dental x-rays from the Australian Dental Association (Playing time: 31 seconds)
Downloadable fact sheets about digital x-rays
Download these helpful information sheets
- Dental x-rays – a fact sheet by the Australian Dental Association
- Dental imaging – a fact sheet by the Australian Dental Association
