X-rays

X-rays Melbourne

Knowing exactly what is happening below your gum-line allows us to make an exact diagnosis and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

Impacted wisdom teeth, a loss in jawbone density resulting from gum disease, oral cancer and the early development of tooth decay are some of the conditions able to be detected through x-rays, which may not be able to be seen during a routine examination until they had reached an advanced stage.

One of the most advanced radiograph technologies available is an OPG. While you are standing, your chin gently rests on a shelf so your head is stable and does not move. Only taking a couple of seconds, the OPG machine scans your entire profile by traversing in a semi-circle motion around your face. This produces a highly detailed panoramic image of your teeth, gums and facial structure and is used for planning treatment of periodontal disease, complicated restorative procedures, dental implants, removal of wisdom teeth and other oral surgery procedures.

Two of the most common types of radiographs for dental patients are “periapical” or “bitewing”. This requires you to bite down on a piece of plastic with x-ray film in the centre. Bitewing X-rays typically detect the presence of decay between teeth, while periapical X-rays show your root structure, bone levels such as height, width and density, as well as cysts and abscesses.

X-rays for our patients in Melbourne

During your examination appointment we will review your dental history, assess your symptoms and may schedule an updated set of radiographs. These may also be required to monitor your treatment progress. How frequently you are required to have radiographs will be dependant to your personal needs and diagnosis of your current oral health.