GENERAL & PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Digital X-rays
Low-radiation digital imaging that shows us what a visual exam alone can't.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What does digital x-rays involve at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry?
Orangeville Smiles Dentistry uses digital X-rays to see between teeth, below the gumline, and inside the jaw, areas a visual exam alone can't reach for Orangeville patients. These images typically use significantly less radiation than older film X-rays and appear on screen within seconds. Digital X-rays help confirm things like cavities between teeth, bone loss, or root issues. Orangeville Smiles Dentistry generally recommends them based on individual risk and history rather than at every single visit.
- Up to 80% less radiation than traditional film X-rays
- Instant, high-resolution images
- Helps detect cavities, bone loss, and infections early
- Images stored digitally for easy year-to-year comparison
WHO IS THIS FOR
Who is a candidate for digital x-rays at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry?
- New patients at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry establishing baseline records of their teeth and jaw
- Patients due for their periodic imaging, often recommended around once a year depending on risk
- Anyone with tooth pain or swelling where the cause isn't visible during a regular exam
- Patients being evaluated for a possible cavity between teeth, which is hard to see visually
- Patients preparing for a filling, root canal, extraction, or other treatment that needs imaging first
WHY PATIENTS CHOOSE THIS
Why do patients choose digital x-rays at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry?
Reveals decay hiding between teeth early
Supports safer imaging with lower radiation exposure
Makes sharing images with specialists simple and fast
Speeds up diagnosis with instant image results
THE PROCESS
How does digital x-rays work at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry?
01
Explanation
We let you know which X-rays are needed and why, based on your exam and treatment history.
02
Positioning
A small sensor or film is placed carefully in your mouth, and a protective apron is provided for comfort.
03
Image capture
The X-ray is taken in seconds, with minimal radiation exposure thanks to digital sensor technology.
04
Review together
The image appears instantly on screen, and we review it with you to explain what we see.
COST & COMPARISON
How much does digital x-rays cost at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry?
Digital X-rays are typically billed per image or as part of a check-up package, and cost depends on how many are needed. Orangeville Smiles Dentistry follows the ODA Fee Guide and will let you know what imaging is recommended, and its cost, before taking any X-rays.
DIGITAL X-RAYS VS. TRADITIONAL FILM X-RAYS
Traditional film X-rays are still used in some offices and can produce a similarly detailed image, but they generally require more radiation and take longer to develop. Digital X-rays appear on screen almost immediately, which lets your dentist review and discuss them with you during the same visit. Orangeville Smiles Dentistry uses digital imaging in part because it typically means less radiation exposure for patients over time.
RISKS & CONSIDERATIONS
What are the risks of digital x-rays?
- X-rays involve a small amount of radiation, though digital imaging keeps this quite low compared to older film methods
- Pregnant patients should mention this to their dentist, as extra precautions or delayed imaging may be recommended in some cases
- X-rays show structural issues but don't replace a visual and physical exam, so both are typically used together
- Occasionally an image needs to be retaken due to positioning, which adds a small amount of extra exposure
AFTERCARE
What does aftercare look like after digital x-rays?
- No downtime or recovery is needed after digital X-rays
- Resume eating, drinking, and your normal routine right away
- Let us know if you're pregnant or think you might be, before imaging
- Mention any recent X-rays taken elsewhere so we can avoid duplicates
- Ask us to explain anything on the image you'd like to understand better
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions about digital x-rays in Orangeville
Easy to find,
easy to visit,
right in Orangeville.
As your local Orangeville family dentist, our Alder St. office sits minutes from downtown, with simple access for families across Orangeville and Dufferin County.
