Digital X-Rays in Lafayette, LA
Dental x-rays are a crucial diagnostic tool. They help us see what is going on beneath your gums and under your enamel. Using x-rays, we can catch problems early and monitor any areas of concern. They can also help us create and determine the proper placement of a variety of dental appliances.
Like other types of x-rays, traditional dental x-rays use radiation to create their images. In the past, we’ve mitigated this radiation with a range of shielding techniques, including the lead aprons you’ve probably worn several times.
Your safety is important to us, and if there’s a better way to perform a necessary procedure, we will find it and use it. That’s why in our office, we rely on digital x-rays (and other digital technology) to provide the images we need to properly care for your teeth.
The Advantages of Digital X-rays
Digital x-rays are estimated to reduce your exposure to radiation by up to 90% when compared to traditional film x-rays. In addition to this significant improvement, they also have a number of other distinct advantages that make digital x-rays the clear choice for our practice:
- Digital x-rays provide a clear picture that helps us to better visualize the structure of your mouth for improved diagnostics.
- The x-ray process is much faster since there isn’t any film to develop.
- Digital x-rays are environmentally “greener;” no chemicals are required to develop the image, and the images are viewed on a computer screen.
- The images can be included directly into your electronic patient record.
- If you move or ever need to see another specialist, your x-rays can be transferred via email.
- Your x-rays can be viewed chairside on any computer model, which allows us to clearly show you any areas of concerns and better explain your treatment options.
Types of Digital X-rays
You’ve probably had dental x-rays taken before and have noticed that dentists use a number of different techniques to get the best possible picture of your mouth. But do you know why the 
different types of x-rays are necessary?
- Bitewings and periapical x-rays help us detect cavities, infections, and tooth abnormalities as well as check for bone quality, which is especially important if we are treating you for periodontal disease.
- Panoramic x-rays allow us to assess the overall condition of your teeth and the supporting bone of your jaws. We also use these to detect tumors, evaluate your temporomandibular joint (the joint just below your ear where your lower jaw connects to your skull), and check growth and development.
We also use 3D imaging technology to look at the structure of your bones and teeth to determine how implants should be placed, plan for surgeries such as bone grafts or sinus lifts, and simplify the diagnosis of complex dental issues.
Contact Our Lafayette LA Dental Clinic
At our office, we believe strongly in the importance of educating our patients and making them a part of their dental team. Digital x-rays are an important part of that. If you have questions about your x-rays or any other part of your care, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Drs. Smith and Domingue use 
At Drs. Smith & Domingue’s office, we treat our patients the way we would want others to treat our own families if the situation were reversed. We believe in preventive care that supports good oral health, and preventing dental emergencies whenever possible. In fact, we implement customized care routines to help patients stay on track based on their own individual needs.