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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Digital Dental X-Rays in Tillsonburg
X-rays reveal decay, bone and roots that an exam cannot. Why images are suggested and how Tillsonburg patients can send past records ahead of a visit.
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Every dental service for Tillsonburg patientsSeeing below the surface
Images help the dentist understand what the eye cannot see.
X-rays show areas hidden from a visual exam, such as decay between teeth, problems under old fillings, infections at the root tips, bone levels around teeth and developing teeth in children. Digital images can be viewed on screen soon after they are taken, which can make it easier to discuss findings during the same appointment.
Tillsonburg patients visiting our Port Dover office may be offered X-rays when there is a clinical reason. If you have recent images from another dentist, arranging to send them before your trip may help the team decide whether new ones are needed.
Why X-rays?
Each image is taken for a reason.
What X-rays can reveal
X-rays can reveal cavities between teeth, decay beneath restorations, bone loss from gum disease, abscesses, cracks, impacted teeth and changes in the jaw. They help the dentist plan treatments such as root canals, extractions and implants. Without them, some problems might only be found once they cause symptoms.
When images are recommended
The frequency depends on your age, risk of decay, gum health, symptoms and treatment history. Someone with frequent cavities may need images more often than someone with few problems. Ask the dentist why a particular X-ray is being suggested and what they hope to learn from it.
Types of images
Different images answer different questions.
Close-up views of individual teeth
Bitewing X-rays show the crowns of upper and lower back teeth together, helping detect decay between them. Periapical images capture a whole tooth from crown to root tip, useful for checking infections or root problems. These small images are often used during routine exams or for a specific concern.
Wider views of the jaws
Panoramic images show both jaws, all teeth and surrounding structures in one view. They may be used to check wisdom teeth, plan certain treatments or evaluate the jaw. Ask which type is recommended for you and how it relates to your symptoms or treatment plan.
Safety
Questions about safety are welcome.
Understanding radiation exposure
Dental X-rays use a low dose of radiation, and digital sensors generally require less exposure than older film methods. The team follows safety practices such as limiting images to those needed. If you have concerns, ask the dentist to explain the benefits and risks of the images being recommended.
Telling the team about pregnancy and health
Let the team know if you are pregnant or might be, as this may affect timing or the decision to take images. Also mention any recent X-rays from medical or dental providers. Sharing this information helps avoid unnecessary images and ensures the team has an accurate picture.
Using the results
Ask to see what the images show.
Reviewing images with the dentist
Digital X-rays can usually be viewed on a screen during your appointment. Ask the dentist to point out what they see, such as areas of decay or bone levels. Understanding the images can make treatment recommendations clearer and help you compare options with confidence.
Sharing records between offices
If you are moving care to Port Dover or seeking a second opinion, ask your previous dentist to forward recent X-rays. Similarly, you can request copies if you need them for another provider. Arranging transfers before the trip from Tillsonburg can save time at your appointment.
Planning your appointment
Prepare your records before travelling from Tillsonburg.
When booking at our Port Dover office, mention any recent dental X-rays and ask whether they can be sent ahead. The team can explain what images may be needed.
Let the team know about pregnancy, recent medical imaging and any concerns about radiation before your appointment.
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.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental X-rays use a low dose of radiation, and digital techniques generally reduce exposure further. Images are taken when there is a clinical reason. Ask the dentist about any concerns so they can explain the benefits and precautions.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
It depends on your risk of decay, gum health, age and symptoms. Some people need images more frequently than others. The dentist will recommend an interval based on your individual needs.
Can I use X-rays from my previous dentist?
Recent images from another office may be useful. Ask your previous dentist to send them before your visit. The team will review them and decide whether additional images are needed for your care.
Should I tell the team if I am pregnant?
Yes. Pregnancy may affect whether X-rays are taken and when. The dentist will consider your situation and discuss whether images are necessary or can be postponed, depending on the urgency of your dental needs.
Why do children need X-rays?
X-rays help check for cavities between baby teeth and monitor the development of adult teeth. The dentist recommends images based on the child’s age, risk and needs, and will explain the reason to parents.
Exams that use dental imaging
General Dentistry →Dental Exams and Checkups →
Routine exams catch problems early. What a checkup covers and why pairing it with a cleaning can save Tillsonburg patients an extra trip to Port Dover.
New Patient Dental Exams →
Switching dental offices? What a comprehensive first exam covers, which records to send ahead and how Tillsonburg patients can make the trip count.