See exactly what’s happening beneath the surface. Our modern digital X-rays provide instant, high-resolution imaging with up to 80% less radiation than traditional methods, allowing us to catch problems early and keep your smile healthy.
Here’s the thing: many of the most serious dental problems start where you—and even your dentist—can’t see them. While a visual exam is essential, it only tells half the story. That’s why dental X-rays are one of the most important diagnostic tools we use to evaluate your complete oral health.
At Centerville Dental Center, we utilize advanced digital radiography. Unlike the old-school X-rays that required waiting for film to develop in harsh chemicals, our digital system allows us to view high-definition images of your teeth and jawbone instantly on a computer screen. This means we can show you exactly what we see in real-time, making it easier for you to understand your dental health and any recommended treatments.
Digital X-rays allow us to diagnose areas of decay hidden between the teeth, identify infections or abscesses in the bone, and detect cysts or tumors long before they cause pain or visible damage. By catching these issues early, we can often treat them with more conservative, less expensive procedures.
We are committed to providing our patients with the safest, most effective care possible. Upgrading to digital radiography was a clear choice for several reasons.
We know that many patients are concerned about radiation exposure. Digital X-ray sensors are highly sensitive, which means they require up to 80% less radiation to produce a clear image compared to conventional film X-rays. They are incredibly safe for patients of all ages.
Because the images appear instantly on our monitors, there is no waiting around. Even better, the digital format allows us to zoom in, adjust the contrast, and enhance the image to spot tiny cavities or subtle bone loss that might have been missed on a small piece of traditional film.
Traditional X-rays require toxic chemicals and lead foil for development, which must be carefully disposed of to protect the environment. Digital X-rays eliminate the need for these chemicals, making them a much greener choice for our community.
Your Questions, Answered Honestly.
Are dental X-rays really necessary? Yes. Without them, we are essentially guessing about the health of the roots of your teeth and your jawbone. X-rays are the only way to detect hidden decay, bone loss from gum disease, and infections at the root tip.
How often do I need them? This depends entirely on your individual oral health. If you are prone to cavities or have a history of gum disease, we may recommend bitewing X-rays every six months to a year. If you have excellent oral health, you may only need them every couple of years. We will tailor a schedule specifically for you.
Are they safe during pregnancy? While digital X-rays emit very low levels of radiation and we always use a protective lead apron, we generally recommend postponing routine X-rays until after your baby is born, just to be overly cautious. However, if you have a dental emergency, an X-ray may be necessary to treat an infection safely.
Since 1983, Centerville Dental Center has been dedicated to providing top-tier preventive dental care to patients across Centerville, Oakwood, Springboro, Carroll, and Kettering. By investing in modern technology like digital X-rays, we ensure that you receive the most accurate diagnoses and the safest possible treatment.
We believe in transparent, collaborative care. When we take an X-ray, we don’t just look at it ourselves; we show it to you, explain what we are looking for, and answer any questions you might have. Call us today at 9346 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Centerville, OH 45458, to schedule your comprehensive exam.
A bitewing X-ray is the most common type of routine dental X-ray. It shows the upper and lower back teeth in a single view. They are primarily used to check for decay between the teeth and to evaluate the bone level around the teeth, which helps in detecting early signs of gum disease.
Unlike bitewings that focus on a few teeth, a panoramic X-ray captures a broad view of your entire mouth, including all of your teeth, the upper and lower jaws, and your TMJ (jaw joints) in one single image. We typically take a panoramic X-ray every 3 to 5 years to check for impacted teeth, cysts, tumors, and overall jaw health.
No, taking a digital X-ray is completely painless. The digital sensor we place in your mouth is designed with smooth, rounded edges for comfort. It only takes a few seconds to capture the image, and our team will work quickly to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the process.
While you have the right to refuse any treatment, we strongly advise against skipping necessary X-rays. Without them, we cannot perform a complete and accurate exam, which means we might miss serious underlying issues. If you have concerns about radiation, please talk to us so we can discuss the safety of our digital system.