Digital X-Rays in Del Mar, CA

Digital x-rays or radiographs are done with a dental exam to provide a more thorough picture of your oral health. X-rays make it easier for Del Mar dentist Dr. Ron Barry to diagnose concerns that aren't visible by the naked eye, and to understand more about your oral health by showing the interior of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. There are several oral health conditions that may be diagnosed with digital images, including decay, cavities, abscesses, cysts, bone loss, and tooth impaction. If these conditions are discovered in the early stages, you may have more effective and less invasive treatment options. As part of your dental exam at Ron Barry, D.M.D. in Del Mar, CA, x-rays will help Dr. Barry accurately diagnose and correct a variety of dental issues.

Dr. Barry also uses the ORTHOPHOS XG 3D, an advanced dental x-ray system developed by Sirona. The ORTHOPHOS XG 3D takes high-definition digital images in 2D and 3D, which make it easier to identify potential dental health issues and plan treatments accordingly. The system is safe and effective to use on patients of all ages, providing accurate digital x-rays.

The ORTHOPHOS XG 3D can take a single, uninterrupted scan of the entire jaw, allowing for an exceptional glimpse of the inner workings of a patient's mouth. There are special programs built into the unit that focuses on the temporomandibular joint (the jaw joint), the sinuses, and other areas of the mouth.

Since the ORTHOPHOS XG 3D is capable of taking 2D and 3D images, Dr. Barry is able to better understand the orientation of the teeth, gums, and bone structures, allowing for more precise implementation of advanced dental procedures, such as the planning and placement of dental implants.

Typically, x-rays are included in your dental examination. Digital x-rays may be performed as part of a preventive dental treatment plan or if you are concerned about pain in your mouth. Even though digital x-rays emit significantly less radiation compared to film x-rays, Ron Barry, D.M.D. likes to limit patient exposure. Although digital x-rays are usually safe for all patients, female patients who are breastfeeding or may be pregnant should talk to Dr. Barry at the start of their appointment so extra cautionary steps may be taken.

Often performed at the start of your dental exam, digital imaging takes around 5 – 10 minutes to do. Many patients will get a set of x-rays to show the needed areas. Once they are complete, they will be uploaded to be viewed by you and Dr. Barry throughout your examination. He will show you any areas of concern and go over treatment options.

A set of digital images will generally be performed once a year at your dental examination. For certain exams, a full mouth set may be performed for a more comprehensive view of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Your digital images will be stored with your oral health file at Ron Barry, D.M.D. so Dr. Barry can view trends and address any developing problems.

Usually, dental insurance will include and cover digital imaging costs as part of a dental examination. Our office can talk to your insurance company to estimate potential balances. If you have any remaining costs or if you are not using insurance, Ron Barry, D.M.D. takes several methods of payment and we can give you information on financing.

X-rays are an advanced tool that can help to diagnose developing oral issues. As a step in an annual dental examination, digital x-rays can give Dr. Barry a unique understanding that allows him to diagnose developing conditions to be corrected before you feel pain. To improve your oral health, contact our team in Del Mar, CA to make an appointment for your dental examination with x-rays.