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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Digital Dental X-Rays in Boston
X-rays show decay between teeth, bone levels and problems below the gum. Boston patients can ask our Port Dover team why and how often images are taken.
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See every dental service for Boston patientsSeeing what eyes cannot
X-rays reveal the parts of your mouth hidden from view.
A visual exam shows the surfaces of your teeth and gums, but much of what matters lies between teeth, below the gumline and inside the bone. Dental x-rays help the dentist find decay in tight spaces, check the roots, look at bone around teeth and spot infections or impacted teeth that cannot be seen any other way.
When you visit our Port Dover office from Boston, the dentist may recommend x-rays as part of your exam. You are always welcome to ask why a particular image is suggested, what it is expected to show and how it fits into your overall care before it is taken.
Why they are used
Images give the dentist information a mirror cannot.
Problems x-rays help detect
X-rays can reveal cavities between teeth and under existing fillings, bone loss from gum disease, abscesses at root tips, cysts, cracks and the position of teeth that have not yet come in. For children, they also help the dentist follow the development of adult teeth. Many of these issues show no symptoms in their early stages.
Tracking changes over time
Comparing images taken at different times allows the dentist to see whether a small area of decay is growing, whether bone levels around teeth are stable and how a treated tooth is healing. This history is valuable, which is why records from previous dentists can be helpful if you are new to the practice or have moved recently.
Types of images
Different views answer different questions.
Close-up images
Bitewing images show the crowns of upper and lower back teeth together and are commonly used to check for decay between teeth. Periapical images show an entire tooth from crown to root tip and the bone around it. These are often used when a particular tooth is painful or needs closer examination after an injury or a new symptom.
Wider views of the jaw
A panoramic image captures the whole mouth, including the jaws, sinuses and developing teeth, in a single picture. It can be useful for assessing wisdom teeth, planning certain treatments or getting an overall view. The dentist will explain which type is recommended in your case and why it suits the particular question being asked about your teeth.
Safety and frequency
X-rays are taken when they are likely to be useful.
Keeping exposure low
Digital dental x-rays use a small amount of radiation, and protective measures such as a lead apron or thyroid collar may be used. If you are pregnant or think you might be, tell the team before any images are taken. The dentist will weigh the need for the information against the small exposure involved before recommending images.
Tailoring the schedule
There is no single schedule that suits everyone. People with a history of cavities, gum disease or ongoing treatment may need images more often, while those with stable oral health may need them less frequently. Ask the dentist how they decide on timing and when your next set is likely to be recommended for you.
Your records
Recent images from elsewhere may save repeat exposure.
Bringing previous x-rays
If you have had x-rays taken recently at another dental office, ask that office to send them before your appointment. Depending on their age and quality, they may reduce the need for new images. Let the team know about any scans taken by specialists or hospitals as well, since they may contain useful information about your jaws.
Understanding your results
Ask the dentist to show you your x-rays and point out anything of interest. Seeing a cavity or area of bone loss can make treatment recommendations easier to understand. If something unusual appears, the dentist will explain whether it needs further assessment, monitoring or referral to another provider. You can also ask for a copy of your images for your own records.
Planning your appointment
Arranging x-rays from Boston
X-rays are usually taken as part of an exam at our Port Dover office. When booking, mention any recent images from another provider and whether you are pregnant, so the team can plan accordingly.
If you are anxious about the sensors or have a strong gag reflex, mention it so the team can help make the process more comfortable.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Dental x-ray questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Are dental x-rays safe?
Dental x-rays involve a low dose of radiation, and protective measures are used where appropriate. The dentist recommends them when the information is likely to be useful. Let the team know if you are pregnant or have concerns before images are taken.
Why do I need x-rays if nothing hurts?
Many dental problems, such as decay between teeth or early bone loss, cause no symptoms at first. X-rays help find these issues early, when they are usually easier to treat than after pain develops and the damage has spread.
How often will I need x-rays?
It depends on your oral health and risk factors. Some people need them more often, others less. The dentist will recommend a schedule based on your history and current needs rather than a fixed routine.
Can my old x-rays be used?
Recent, good-quality x-rays from another office may be useful. Ask that office to send them before your appointment. The dentist will decide whether they are sufficient or whether new images are needed for a full picture.
What if I have a strong gag reflex?
Let the team know beforehand. They can use techniques to make sensor placement more comfortable, and in some cases a different type of image may be considered to gather the information needed more comfortably for you.
Exams that use dental imaging
General Dentistry →Dental Exams and Checkups →
Regular checkups catch decay, gum changes and worn dental work early. Boston residents can book exams in Port Dover and hear findings in plain words.
New Patient Dental Exams →
Joining a new dental practice? Boston residents can learn what a first full exam in Port Dover covers and how to bring records from a past dentist.