Advanced dental X-rays – providing insights into the health of your mouth
Routine exams are essential for the health of your mouth and body. Your oral health affects how you chew food and, in turn, your nutrition and digestion. Conditions like advanced gum disease are risk factors for serious illnesses, from heart problems to respiratory distress.
Exams at Ocean Shore Dentistry in Ocean Township, New Jersey allow Dr. Ravi Shah to spot small problems early, before they turn into big issues. Dr. Shah is also an enthusiastic adopter of advanced technologies, which help him to understand the condition of your mouth and needs – the first step in developing effective treatment plans.
Are X-rays done at every visit?
X-rays are generally done during new patient visits or if it’s been a while since you have visited us. We need to stay on top of any potential problems with your teeth, gums, and other tissues and structures of your face, jaws, and mouth. Once we get you into a regular schedule of checkups at our office, we typically order X-rays once a year or even earlier than that if Dr. Shah notices something that requires a closer look during an examination.
What X-rays do you use?
We use advanced alternatives to many standard or traditional technologies and services. Digital X-rays are an alternative to standard, film-based X-rays. We also use other advanced and digital imaging technologies, too. These technologies largely render really clear images, which helps to make an accurate diagnosis related to any symptoms or changes you may be experiencing with your mouth. Of course, our patients appreciate that our use of advanced technologies limits radiation exposure. We also have safeguards in place to further protect your body from the minimal radiation produced during these X-rays. Digital X-rays are great for the environment, too, because they do not create chemical or film waste.
What other technologies do you use?
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) also helps Dr. Shah to accurately diagnose the source of symptoms and changes in your mouth. CBCT equipment is designed to produce images that are similar to conventional CT scans; however, it features a special arm that rotates around you. As the arm rotates, it captures images of your teeth, mouth, jaw, neck, ears, nose, and throat at different angles. It uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to produce a large volume of quality images from various perspectives in a single scan.
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Can I get my full-mouth X-rays or a 3D CBCT scan in a single appointment?
Yes. Full mouth X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging are typically completed during a single visit. These advanced diagnostic tools allow Dr. Ravi Shah to capture detailed images of your teeth, jaws, supporting structures, and surrounding tissues quickly and comfortably. The images can often be reviewed immediately, allowing Dr. Shah to discuss his findings and recommendations before you leave. Most patients complete the diagnostic process in one appointment.
What is the CBCT process like?
As CBCT scans are not invasive, little to no preparation is involved. It is important to tell Dr. Shah if you are pregnant (or think you may be), just as you would with any X-ray. The only thing you need to do is to remain still as the arm goes around you. CBCT is an extremely efficient service, so you don’t have to sit for long. In fact, your full mouth can be scanned in 20-40 seconds. Regional scans of specific areas of the mouth or structures can be done in under 10 seconds.
After we capture many images of your mouth from different angles, a single 3-Dimensional digital reconstruction is created that provides Dr. Shah with a complete picture of your oral health.
Dr. Shah also uses state-of-the-art technologies for treatment. For instance, computer-aided software and equipment are used to make crowns in one visit, and we can 3D print appliances like night guards at our office in Ocean Township, NJ. To benefit from the latest and greatest technologies within a comfortable, inviting, and non-intimidating setting, schedule an appointment. Call (732) 466-3966 to speak with a member of our team at Ocean Shore Dentistry today.
