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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Digital Dental X-Rays in St. Williams
X-rays show decay between teeth, bone levels and roots that an exam cannot see. St. Williams patients can learn why and how often they are taken in Port Dover.
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Caring for St. Williams patients at our office in Port Dover
Every dental service for St. WilliamsSeeing below the surface
Images help the dentist find what eyes alone can miss.
Dental X-rays reveal areas that cannot be seen during a visual exam, such as decay between teeth, infection at root tips, bone loss from gum disease and teeth still developing below the gums. Digital X-rays produce images on a screen that the dentist can enlarge and review with you, making it easier to understand findings.
Patients from St. Williams who visit our Port Dover office will have X-rays recommended only when they are expected to add useful information. The dentist can explain why a particular image is suggested and how it relates to your care, and you are welcome to ask questions before any are taken.
Why they are used
X-rays support diagnosis and planning.
Finding hidden problems
Cavities often start between teeth where they cannot be seen directly. X-rays can show these early, along with decay under existing fillings, infections, cysts and changes in bone around the teeth. Finding these issues early often means simpler treatment than waiting until symptoms appear.
Planning treatment
Before procedures such as root canals, extractions, implants or orthodontic treatment, X-rays help the dentist see root shape, bone levels and nearby structures. They also provide a baseline for future comparisons, allowing the dentist to track changes such as gradual bone loss or healing after treatment.
Types of images
Different X-rays answer different questions.
Bitewing and periapical X-rays
Bitewing X-rays show the crowns of upper and lower back teeth together and are useful for detecting decay between teeth. Periapical X-rays show an entire tooth from crown to root tip, helping identify infection, root problems or bone changes around a specific tooth.
Panoramic and other views
A panoramic X-ray captures a broad view of the jaws and teeth in one image, useful for assessing wisdom teeth, jaw joints and overall development. Some situations may call for 3D imaging, which may be arranged through a referral. The dentist will explain which type is needed and why.
Safety
X-rays are taken with care and only when justified.
Keeping exposure low
Digital dental X-rays use a low dose of radiation. The number and frequency of images are based on your individual needs rather than a fixed schedule. Protective measures may be used, and the team aims to take only images that contribute to your diagnosis or treatment.
Pregnancy and special situations
If you are pregnant or think you might be, let the team know. Many routine X-rays can be postponed, while urgent images may still be taken with appropriate precautions when needed for your care. Mention any previous radiation treatment to the head or neck as well.
Your records
Images become part of your dental history.
Reviewing images together
Ask the dentist to show you the X-rays and point out any areas of concern. Seeing a shadow of decay or bone loss can help you understand recommendations. If nothing concerning is found, that is useful information too, giving a baseline to compare with future images.
Sharing records
If you have recent X-rays from another dental office, they may be requested so you do not need repeat images unnecessarily. Likewise, your images can be shared with specialists if you are referred. Let the team know about prior imaging when booking your appointment.
Planning your appointment
X-rays and your visit from St. Williams.
If you have had dental X-rays recently elsewhere, tell our Port Dover team when booking. We may be able to request them in advance to avoid repeating images.
Let us know if you are pregnant, wear a pacemaker or have any condition that might affect positioning for X-rays.
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?
It depends on your oral health, history and risk of problems. Some people need them more often than others. The dentist decides based on your needs rather than a fixed schedule.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Digital dental X-rays use low radiation doses, and images are taken only when they are expected to be useful. Ask the dentist if you have concerns about exposure.
Can I refuse X-rays?
You can discuss your concerns, but without X-rays the dentist may not be able to fully diagnose certain problems. Ask what information would be missing and how that could affect your care.
Can X-rays from another office be used?
Often, yes, if they are recent and of good quality. Ask your previous office to send them, or let the team know so they can request them before your visit.
Do children need X-rays?
Children may need X-rays to check for decay between teeth or to monitor developing teeth. The dentist will recommend them based on your child’s individual needs.
Where X-rays fit into your care
General Dentistry →Dental Exams and Checkups →
Regular checkups catch decay, gum changes and worn fillings before they become painful. St. Williams residents can learn what an exam at our Port Dover office covers.
New Patient Dental Exams →
Joining a new dental practice starts with a thorough first exam and a conversation. St. Williams residents can learn what to bring to a first visit in Port Dover.