Dental X-Ray Services in San Antonio
Quick Inquiry
Safe & Precise Diagnostics
At Dentistry of San Antonio, we prioritize your oral health with advanced dental X-ray services that provide detailed insights into your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Dental X-rays are a crucial diagnostic tool, helping our dentists detect hidden issues such as cavities, infections, bone loss, and impacted teeth before they become serious problems. Using low-radiation digital imaging technology, we ensure your safety while delivering high-quality results for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Important?
Regular dental exams are essential, but some oral health issues aren’t visible to the naked eye. Dental X-rays allow us to:
- Detect tooth decay between teeth or under fillings
- Identify gum disease and bone loss
- Locate impacted teeth (such as wisdom teeth)
- Check for abscesses or cysts
- Plan treatments for implants, braces, or extractions
- Monitor jaw and tooth development in children
Types of Dental X-Rays We Offer
Bitewing X-Rays
These X-rays focus on the upper and lower back teeth, showing how they align. They help detect cavities, gum disease, and changes in bone density.
Periapical X-Rays
These capture an entire tooth from crown to root, allowing us to examine tooth roots, bone structure, and potential infections.
Panoramic X-Rays
A full-mouth scan that provides a broad view of your teeth, jaws, sinuses, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint). Ideal for planning orthodontics, implants, and wisdom teeth extractions.
Occlusal X-Rays
These show the floor or roof of the mouth, helping diagnose extra teeth, jaw fractures, or abnormalities in children’s tooth development.
Cone Beam CT Scans (3D Imaging)
For advanced cases, 3D imaging provides a detailed view of bone structure, nerve pathways, and soft tissues—essential for dental implants, root canals, and oral surgery planning.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Yes! Modern digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. We also follow strict safety protocols, including lead aprons and thyroid collars, to minimize exposure.
How Often Should You Get Dental X-Rays?
The frequency depends on your oral health needs:
- Every 6-12 months for patients with a history of cavities or gum disease
- Every 1-2 years for healthy adults
- As needed for children (to monitor growth) or before major procedures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are dental X-rays safe during pregnancy?
While minimal radiation is used, we recommend avoiding X-rays during the first trimester unless absolutely necessary. Always inform us if you’re pregnant.
How long does a dental X-ray take?
Most X-rays are completed in just a few minutes, and digital imaging provides instant results for your dentist to review.
Why do children need dental X-rays?
Kids’ teeth and jaws are still developing. X-rays help monitor tooth eruption, detect early decay, and plan orthodontic treatments.
Do dental X-rays hurt?
No! The process is completely painless—you’ll just need to bite down on a small sensor or hold still for a quick scan.
How should I prepare for a dental X-ray?
No special preparation is needed. Just remove eyeglasses, jewelry, or metal objects that could interfere with imaging.
Can I refuse dental X-rays?
Yes, but X-rays help catch hidden problems early. Skipping them may lead to undiagnosed decay, infections, or bone loss.
Schedule Your Dental X-Ray in San Antonio Today!
At Dentistry of San Antonio, we use the latest digital X-ray technology to ensure fast, accurate, and safe diagnostics. Whether you need a routine check-up or advanced imaging for a dental procedure, our team is here to help.