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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Digital Dental X-Rays in Hillcrest
X-rays reveal decay between teeth, bone levels and problems below the gums. Hillcrest patients can learn when our Port Dover dentists recommend them.
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X-rays fill in what a visual exam leaves out.
Much of every tooth sits below the gum, and decay often begins between teeth where it simply cannot be seen. Dental X-rays let the dentist look at roots, bone, developing teeth and the areas hidden beneath fillings or crowns. Digital sensors capture images that appear on a screen within moments, which makes it much easier to review them with you while you are still in the chair.
Hillcrest patients who come to our Port Dover office will have X-rays recommended based on their individual needs and history rather than a fixed routine. The dentist will explain why an image would be useful, what it is expected to show and how the findings may affect your care.
Why they are used
Images help confirm what the dentist suspects.
Finding hidden problems
X-rays can show decay between teeth or under existing fillings, bone loss caused by gum disease, infections at the tips of roots, impacted wisdom teeth, cysts and other changes that are not visible during an ordinary exam. Finding these early often means simpler treatment. The dentist always uses images alongside a clinical examination rather than as a substitute for one.
Planning treatment
Before procedures such as root canals, extractions, implants or crowns, X-rays reveal root shape, bone levels and the position of nearby structures like nerves and sinuses. They also provide a baseline that later images can be compared with. Ask the dentist to explain how a particular image will influence decisions about your treatment, so its purpose is clear.
Types of images
Different views answer different questions.
Bitewing and periapical images
Bitewing X-rays show the crowns of the upper and lower back teeth together and are especially useful for spotting decay between teeth and checking bone levels. Periapical images show an entire tooth from crown to root tip and are often used to investigate pain or a suspected infection. For both, you bite gently on a small sensor while the image is taken.
Panoramic and other views
A panoramic image captures the whole mouth in a single view, including both jaws, the sinuses and any developing teeth. It may be recommended for assessing wisdom teeth, planning orthodontic care or getting a broad overview. In some situations 3D imaging may be suggested, sometimes through referral elsewhere. The dentist will explain which view best suits your situation.
Safety
X-rays are recommended when the benefit justifies them.
Keeping exposure low
Dental X-rays use low levels of radiation, and digital sensors generally require less exposure than older film methods did. Images are taken only when they are expected to help with diagnosis or treatment, and protective measures may be used as well. Ask the dentist about any concerns you have regarding radiation and how often images are likely to be recommended for you.
Pregnancy and special considerations
Tell the team if you are or might be pregnant. In many cases routine X-rays can be postponed until later, while urgent images may still be advised with appropriate precautions. Mention any previous radiation treatment or recent dental X-rays taken at another office, since existing images may reduce or remove the need to take new ones.
Reviewing results
You are welcome to see what the dentist sees.
Looking at your X-rays together
Digital images can be enlarged on screen, which makes it easier for the dentist to point out areas of concern and explain what they mean. Ask questions about anything that is not clear to you. Seeing the images for yourself often helps you understand why a particular treatment is being recommended and how urgent it really is.
Sharing records
If you are moving to a new dentist or seeking a second opinion, you can ask for copies of recent X-rays to be sent with your consent. Likewise, you can request images from other offices to be shared here, which may avoid unnecessary repeat exposure. The team can explain how records are transferred, stored and kept confidential.
Planning your appointment
About imaging at your Port Dover visit.
When booking from Hillcrest, let the team know if you have had dental X-rays at another office in the last while. Those records can often be requested ahead of time, which may avoid repeating images you have already had taken.
Mention any pregnancy, previous radiation therapy or concerns about imaging before the appointment so the dentist can plan accordingly and answer your questions.
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
X-ray questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
The frequency depends on your age, oral health, risk of decay and any specific concerns. Some people need images more often than others. The dentist will recommend a schedule based on your individual needs and explain the reasoning behind it.
Are digital X-rays safe?
Dental X-rays use low radiation doses, and digital systems typically reduce exposure further compared with older methods. Images are taken only when the benefits outweigh the small risk. Discuss any concerns with the dentist before the images are taken.
Can I refuse X-rays?
You can discuss your concerns and decide not to have them. However, without X-rays some problems may go undetected, and certain treatments cannot be planned safely. The dentist will explain the implications so you can make an informed choice.
Do children need dental X-rays?
Children may need X-rays to check for decay between teeth and to monitor teeth that are still developing. How often depends on their risk and stage of growth. The dentist will explain the reasons before recommending images for your child.
Will my X-rays be shared with other dentists?
Records are shared only with your consent, for example when you are referred to a specialist or transfer to a new office. Ask the team about the process if you need copies sent, and they will explain how the transfer is handled.
Where imaging fits in
General Dentistry →Dental Exams and Checkups →
A routine checkup looks at teeth, gums, bite and soft tissues. Hillcrest patients can learn what our Port Dover dentists examine and how to prepare.
New Patient Dental Exams →
Starting with a new dental office? Hillcrest residents can learn what a first comprehensive exam at our Port Dover practice covers and what records to bring.