Dental X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool in modern dentistry, providing detailed images of the teeth, bones, and surrounding soft tissues. These images help dentists diagnose and treat various dental conditions that may not be visible during a standard dental examination. Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic offers dental X-ray services to all our patients, at affordable and friendly costs. We also guarantee professional care and quality service delivery on dental X-rays.
How dental X-rays work.
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to visible light but with much higher energy. This high energy allows X-rays to penetrate various materials, including human tissue, to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. In dental X-rays, a controlled burst of X-rays is directed at the targeted area, and the resulting image is captured on a special film or digital sensor.
The varying densities of different tissues in the mouth affect how much X-ray radiation they absorb. For example, dense structures like teeth and bones absorb more X-rays and appear white or light grey on the X-ray image, while softer tissues absorb fewer X-rays and appear darker. This contrast allows dentists to identify problems such as cavities, infections, and bone loss.
Types of dental X-rays
Dental X-rays come in several types, each serving a specific diagnostic purpose:
1. Bitewing X-rays
Bitewing X-rays capture detailed images of the upper and lower back teeth in a single view. They are primarily used to detect cavities between the teeth and monitor the bone levels supporting the teeth. Bitewing X-rays are typically taken during routine dental check-ups.
2. Periapical X-rays
Periapical X-rays provide a complete view of a single tooth, from the crown to the root and the surrounding bone. These X-rays are used to detect problems below the gum line or in the jawbone, such as abscesses, cysts, or impacted teeth.
3. Panoramic X-rays
Panoramic X-rays offer a broad view of the entire mouth, including all the teeth, the upper and lower jaws, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and the surrounding structures. These X-rays are useful for planning orthodontic treatments, assessing the development of wisdom teeth, and detecting jaw problems.
4. Occlusal X-rays
Occlusal X-rays show the roof or floor of the mouth and are used to identify issues like extra teeth, jaw fractures, or cysts. They are often taken to provide a clear image of tooth development in children.
Applications of dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are invaluable in diagnosing and treating a wide range of dental conditions:
1. Detecting cavities
Cavities can form in areas that are difficult to see during a visual examination, such as between teeth or below existing fillings. Dental X-rays can reveal these hidden cavities, allowing for timely intervention.
2. Assessing bone health
Dental X-rays help in evaluating the bone supporting the teeth, which is crucial for diagnosing periodontal disease. They can show the extent of bone loss and guide the treatment plan.
3. Monitoring dental development
In children, dental X-rays are used to monitor the development of teeth, detect any abnormalities, and plan orthodontic treatments. They can identify issues such as crowding, impacted teeth, and problems with tooth eruption.
4. Diagnosing infections and abscesses
Dental X-rays can detect infections and abscesses in the teeth and surrounding bone, providing essential information for root canal therapy and other treatments.
5. Planning dental procedures
For procedures like dental implants, extractions, and orthodontic treatments, dental X-rays provide detailed images that aid in precise planning and execution.
Safety of dental X-rays
One common concern regarding dental X-rays is radiation exposure. However, modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation, making them safe for most patients, including children. The following measures ensure patient safety:
1. Digital X-Rays
Digital X-rays require significantly less radiation compared to traditional film X-rays. They also produce images instantly, reducing the need for retakes. They are fast hence, reducing the exposure time of patients to the X-rays.
2. Protective measures
During the X-ray procedure, patients are provided with lead aprons and thyroid collars to protect against unnecessary exposure to radiation. These protective measures minimize the risk further and improve on patient safety and comfort during the X-rays.
3. Minimizing frequency
Our dentists follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) to minimize radiation exposure. They only recommend dental X-rays when necessary for diagnosis and treatment.
Benefits of dental X-rays
1. Early detection
Dental X-rays allow for the early detection of dental issues, enabling timely treatment and preventing more serious problems down the line. This early intervention can save patients from pain, discomfort, and expensive procedures.
2. Comprehensive diagnosis
X-rays provide a comprehensive view of the teeth and jaw structures, helping dentists diagnose conditions that are not visible to the naked eye. This detailed diagnosis ensures that all underlying issues are addressed.
3. Personalized treatment plans
With the detailed information obtained from X-rays, dentists can create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. This individualized approach improves the effectiveness of treatments.
4. Improved patient outcomes
The use of dental X-rays leads to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, resulting in improved patient outcomes. Patients experience better oral health and reduced risk of complications.
Cost of dental X-rays
As discussed earlier, Nairobi Sterlin Dental Clinic is at the forefront of delivering quality and affordable dental services, in Nairobi and its environs. Here, we are keen on ensuring patients get the best from us and ensure we have met our patients’ expectations. One way to do this is by making the treatment as affordable as possible. At our clinic, dental X-rays will cost you as low as Ksh.1,000 to Ksh.2,000, depending on the type of X-rays. This is a friendly cost and the high quality of the service and experience is worth every bit of it.
Our take
Dental X-rays offer invaluable insights into the health of the teeth, bones, and surrounding tissues. They help our dentists discover issues that they wouldn’t have identified on normal check-ups. Our commitment to our patients and the delivery of quality and affordable services is highlighted by our friendly costs for this service. Visit our clinic today at the Park Suites Building in Parklands for consultation and treatment. Additionally, feel free to contact us for enquiries or book your appointment with our dentists today.