The latest, safest diagnostics: Digital dental X-rays for fast & effective treatment
Regular dental X-rays are the best way for your dentist to evaluate each tooth’s root and see if there’s any decay that isn’t obvious during an exam. At Greenway Dental Group in Greenbelt, Maryland, Alex Shklyar, DDS and Madueke Ekoh, DDS offer state-of-the-art digital radiography. Not only does this type of X-ray provide them with instant images, but it also exposes you to less radiation than conventional X-rays. If you’re due for dental X-rays or are in need or a routine exam, book your appointment by calling the office or by using the online scheduler.
Dexis Digital Dental X-ray System
- The best image quality—DEXIS Platinum Sensor excels in visible resolution and contrast.
- DEXIS yields highly diagnostic and more consistent images, even at lower doses.
- 9 out of 10 patients prefer the comfort of DEXIS.
- DEXIS ease of use and faster workflow saves valuable time.
The award-winning DEXIS Platinum sensor incorporates PureImage™ technology—a group of highly sophisticated digital imaging components, the TrueComfort™ sensor design with beveled corners and smooth edges, and highly portable direct USB connectivity. These features along with the robust DEXIS software provide dentists with the best and most consistent image quality, the most comfortable sensor, and the fastest workflow.
Sirona Orthophos Digital PANO x-ray system
The high-quality 2D/3D X-ray device with a comprehensive range of services for every practice. Orthophos is a reliable partner and optimized for everyday tasks. Its CsI Plus sensor with autofocus function ensures clear images, even in anatomically difficult cases. The automatic patient positioning together with the patented occlusal bite block enables an easy and timesaving patient positioning.
X-ray Q & A
What are digital X-rays?
The process of getting digital X-rays is similar to traditional film X-rays. But rather than waiting for processing and possibly having to go through the entire process again if your images aren’t clear, digital X-rays show your images on the computer monitor right away.
What’s particularly beneficial about digital X-rays is that they allow your dentist to zoom in, magnify, and sharpen images they need to look at in greater detail. Plus, your X-rays are securely stored right in your digital file, making it easy to pull them up for future reference. This allows your dentist to evaluate any abnormal changes in your teeth and gums over time.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Though traditional film X-rays were always considered safe and exposed you to little radiation, digital X-rays expose you to up to 80% less radiation than conventional X-rays. Digital radiography conforms to the lowest possible rate of radiation exposure not only for the patient but also for the technician.
Your dental practitioner at Greenway Dental Group works to minimize your radiation exposure by only gathering digital X-rays that you need. This reduces your risk of unnecessary exposure if you weren’t due — or didn’t need — a specific type of X-ray.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
How often you need dental X-rays depends on when you last had them, your overall oral hygiene, and whether you have any current issues. Some patients need X-rays every six months during routine exams and cleanings, while others may only need annual X-rays.
There are also different types of X-rays that you might need more or less frequently. Bite-wing X-rays, for instance, show your dentist at Greenway Dental Group how your teeth are touching each other. These X-rays can show decay in back teeth, too.
Or if you haven’t had X-rays in a while, you might need full radiographic assessment of your teeth, gums, jaws, and sinuses. If you’re experiencing a sudden toothache, you may only need a periapical X-ray, which provides a view of your entire affected tooth, from the crown and root, all the way to the supporting bone.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental X-rays
Why are dental X-rays still needed if my teeth look healthy?
Even when teeth appear healthy, dental issues can exist below the surface and progress silently over time. Dental X-rays allow your dentist to evaluate tooth roots, jawbone health, and areas between teeth where decay, infection, or structural changes may begin. This deeper view supports early diagnosis, helping prevent minor concerns from turning into painful or costly dental problems.
How does digital dental X-ray technology improve diagnostic accuracy?
Digital dental X-rays provide high-resolution images that appear instantly on a computer screen. Dentists can zoom in, enhance contrast, and closely examine specific areas of concern without delays. This level of detail improves diagnostic accuracy and allows for more precise treatment planning across preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic care.
What is the DEXIS digital X-ray system? How does it benefit patients?
The DEXIS Platinum sensor system used at Greenway Dental Group is designed to deliver exceptional image clarity while enhancing patient comfort. Its advanced imaging technology produces highly consistent diagnostic images, and the slim, smooth sensor design helps reduce discomfort during placement. Faster image capture also improves workflow efficiency, allowing dentists to spend more time reviewing results with patients.
How does the Sirona Orthophos panoramic X-ray system differ from standard X-rays?
The Sirona Orthophos system captures panoramic and 3D images that provide a comprehensive view of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. This technology is particularly helpful for evaluating impacted teeth, jaw alignment, sinus anatomy, and complex dental cases. Automatic positioning and autofocus features help ensure clear, reliable images even in anatomically challenging situations.
What dental conditions can X-rays help diagnose early?
Dental X-rays help detect cavities between teeth, infections near tooth roots, bone loss related to gum disease, cysts, impacted teeth, and developmental abnormalities. Identifying these issues early allows your dentist to recommend timely treatment options that are often less invasive and more cost-effective than waiting until symptoms worsen.
Will dental X-rays be taken at every dental visit?
Dental X-rays are not required at every appointment. The need for imaging depends on your oral health history, current symptoms, age, and individual risk factors. Patients with stable oral health may only need periodic updates, while those with ongoing concerns may benefit from more frequent imaging to support ongoing care.
Are dental X-rays necessary for orthodontic or implant planning?
Advanced dental imaging plays an important role in orthodontic and implant treatment planning. Panoramic and 3D X-rays provide detailed insight into tooth positioning, bone density, and jaw structure. These images help ensure treatments such as Invisalign, braces, or dental implants are planned accurately and predictably for long-term success.
Does dental insurance typically cover digital X-rays?
Many dental insurance plans include coverage for routine digital X-rays, particularly when taken as part of preventive care. Coverage can vary based on the type of imaging required and the timing of previous X-rays. The team at Greenway Dental Group helps patients review benefits and understand any expected out-of-pocket costs beforehand.
How can I schedule dental X-rays in Greenbelt, Maryland?
Patients who need updated dental X-rays in Greenbelt, Maryland, can schedule an appointment with Greenway Dental Group by phone or online. Whether imaging is needed for routine exams, diagnosis, or treatment planning, the practice offers advanced digital technology and convenient access to comprehensive dental care close to home.