Dee Nishimine, D.D.S., Inc.
Sophia Y. Tseng, D.M.D.
Periodontics & Dental Implants
Call: (559)229-6557

Digital X-Rays

Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental x-rays.  This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer.  This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged helping Drs. Dennis Nishimine, Dee Nishimine & Sophia Tseng, and dental hygienist detect problems easier.  Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental x-rays.

Dental x-rays are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular periodontal implant exam.  Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.  Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.  We do not want to go around "blindfolded" when we are treating you.

We can easily e-mail your digital x-rays to your referring doctor and this makes our world "greener."

Dental x-rays may reveal:

  • Abscesses or cysts.
  • Bone loss or deepening of pockets.
  • Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
  • Decay between the teeth.
  • Developmental abnormalities.
  • Poor tooth and root positions.
  • Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.

Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, your natural teeth and dental implants!  Prevention should be the goal of your therapy.

Are dental x-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment.  Digital x-rays produce a significantly lower level of radiation compared to traditional dental x-rays.  Not only are digital x-rays better for the health and safety of the patient, they are faster and more comfortable to take, which reduces your time in our dental office.  Also, since the digital image is captured electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful waste and chemicals into the environment.

Even though digital x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, Drs. Dennis Nishimine, Dee Nishimine & Sophia Tseng, still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation.  These precautions include only taking those x-rays that are necessary, and using lead apron shields to protect the body.

CT Scans for Dental Implants:

CT Scan will often be needed for dental implant placement.  We want to know the quantity, quality, size of sinuses and the position of vital structures.  The CT Scan will allow us to look at you 3-D and is a life size format.  In the computer program we will develop and determine the best position for your dental impalnts.

CT Scans will help preventing traumatizing the nerurovascular bundle in the lower jaw bone.  When this is traumatized the results will be known as Praesthesia or a numb lip that can be permanent.   Dyesthesia or a constant burning sensation may also arise if this nerve is trauamtized or destroyed. We have ZERO paraestesia or dyesthesia cases so far!!  The majority of our implant cases we will utilze CT Scans to allow us to better place your dental implants and avoid problems for you.  "Why would we want to go around blindfolded or have our hands tied behind or backs."

How often should dental x-rays be taken? "As often as needed to provide a proper diagnosis."

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.  Drs. Dennis Nishimine, Dee Nishimine & Sophia Tseng, and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, periodontal exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.

A full mouth series of dental x-rays (16-20)  is recommended for new patients.  A full series is usually good for two to three years.  Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.

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