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 the dentist and dental hygienist detect problems more easily.  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 dental 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 can go undetected.

Dental X-rays may reveal:

  • Abscesses or cysts.
  • Bone loss.
  • 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 can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Are dental X-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment.  The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of X-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.

Dental X-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe.  Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental X-rays.  These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each X-ray.

How often should dental X-rays be taken?

The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.  Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.

A full mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients.  A full series is usually good for three to five 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth extraction

Most dental implant insurance policies pay for a portion of the procedure. However, one must note that the percentage varies with the policy you’ve chosen. For example, some policies cover up to 50 percent of the cost, while a few others may have increased coverage, covering up to 60-70 percent of the dental implant procedure cost.

A periodontist is a better choice than a general dentist for implant placements. However, on the other hand, you can also approach an oral surgeon for dental implants. Both of them can perform the implant placement procedure.

Dental implants last for an average period of 10-30 years.

The cost of dental implants in Texas with insurance ranges between $500 and $1500. You should also factor in additional charges of $500 to $1500 for abutment and crown. So, the average total cost of dental implants with insurance can fall in the range of $1000 – $3000.

The all-inclusive cost of a tooth implant in Texas without insurance is between $4000 and $6000. However, patients should check the specific cost of tooth implants in their case with the dental surgeon.

Dental implants last for 10-30 years.

Snap-on dentures aren’t as robust as natural teeth when it comes to biting and chewing. When the surgeons place implants under the existing denture, they help it remain in place. However, it doesn’t contribute much reinforcement to biting and chewing. Patients will have to eat softer foods cut into smaller pieces. On the other hand, All-on-4 implants provide natural chewing strength and capabilities. They comprise durable materials that replicate the shape and appearance of natural teeth.

The expected life of all-on-four dentures ranges between 20 and 25 years

Appropriate care can help maintain the longevity and functionality of all-on-four dental implants in the long run. Accordingly, here are some tips.

  • Maintaining oral hygiene – brushing teeth, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash
  • Avoiding eating hard and sticky foods
  • Undergoing regular dental check-ups
  • Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy and balanced diet
  • Safeguarding teeth against night grinding with a night guard
  • Quitting smoking at the earliest

One cannot remove dental implants for cleaning as they are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. However, you can clean dental implants like natural teeth. Following regular hygiene practices like brushing and flossing can help maintain the health of the surrounding gums and keep infection at bay. Make sure that you use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent implant or restoration damage.

Mouth implants should be cleaned professionally twice a year.

Dental implants are fixed in place along the gumline. Hence, when positioned appropriately, food cannot get stuck underneath dental implants. However, one cannot rule this possibility out if the implants aren’t positioned correctly.

The cost of all-on-4 dental implants in Texas ranges between $20,000 and $50,000. However, case- and clinic-specific costs may vary. Call us at 903-583-7786 to explore more about our all-on-4 dental implant cost.