Digital X-Rays
Dental X-rays are an extremely important diagnostic tool that can help Dr. Sullivan and our team determine the state of your oral health. Our office is equipped with digital radiography, the latest in dental X-ray technology. Thanks to digital radiography, we can receive the information we need about your oral health instantly as digital X-rays are able to be viewed immediately once they have been taken. Digital X-rays can help us detect:
• Decay between and inside the teeth
• Abnormalities
• Bone loss
• Tumors/cysts
We use Panorex (panoramic) digital X-rays and regular digital X-rays to help us diagnose your oral health and more accurately plan your treatment. Panoramic digital X-rays are usually recommended once every three to five years, and regular (bite-wing) digital X-rays should be taken once per year. Because digital X-rays require much less radiation than traditional film X-rays, you can rest assured that you and your family will be safe whenever you visit.
3-D Imaging
Beyond intraoral and panoramic X-rays, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) X-rays provide a more detailed picture of what is happening in your mouth by creating 3-dimensional images that display soft tissue, airway, and bone, as well as tooth structures. CBCT scans are one of the newest innovations in dental X-ray technology, and can be used to detect and diagnose a wide variety of diseases and conditions. Dr. Sullivan may recommend a CBCT scan as they help him to:
• Accurately measure the jaw (including shape and dimension)
• Detect lesions indicative of serious disease
• Assess the airway for possible sleep disorders
• Identify the exact location of infection in a tooth
• Evaluate the nasal cavity, sinuses, and nerve canal
CBCT scans are a quick and easy way to help Dr. Sullivan diagnose conditions affecting the jaw, gums, and breathing. It also emits a much lower dose of radiation compared to typical dental CT scans.
Intraoral Camera
An intraoral camera is a small, pen-like tool capable of taking high-definition images of parts of the mouth that would otherwise be difficult to see. Because of its small size, the camera is able to reach areas difficult to see with the naked eye and provide Dr. Sullivan with a more detailed, close-up view without causing the patient any discomfort. Our intraoral cameras help Dr. Sullivan to identify:
• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Chipped or cracked teeth
The use of intraoral cameras allows for earlier detection and treatment of dental issues, which can help avoid more extensive damage and treatment.