Types of Dental X-Rays We Use at Floss Lincoln Park
Different imaging techniques serve specific diagnostic purposes. Bitewing X-rays capture the crowns of upper and lower teeth in a single image, making them ideal for detecting decay between teeth and checking the fit of existing dental crowns or fillings. Periapical X-rays show entire teeth from crown to root tip, revealing infections, bone abnormalities, and root structure.
Panoramic X-rays provide a broad view of your entire mouth, jaw joints, sinuses, and nasal area. This comprehensive perspective helps evaluate impacted wisdom teeth, jaw relationships, and overall dental development. The American Dental Association notes that digital X-rays reduce radiation exposure by up to 80% compared to traditional film-based systems.
Our digital system produces instant images viewable on chairside monitors. This immediate access allows Dr. Delone Jouja and Dr. Martha Silva to explain findings and treatment recommendations while you’re still in the chair, making consultations more interactive and informative.
What to Expect During Your X-Ray Imaging
The imaging process takes just minutes. You’ll wear a protective lead apron covering your chest and abdomen. For certain views, a small sensor or film holder is placed in your mouth, while the X-ray tube is positioned outside. The actual exposure lasts only seconds per image.
Digital sensors connect directly to our computer system and display images within seconds. No chemical processing or waiting periods slow down your appointment. This efficiency allows more time for discussing treatment options during your visit.
Most patients need routine bitewing X-rays during regular checkups, typically once or twice yearly, depending on their cavity risk. Full-mouth series or panoramic images are obtained less frequently, normally every three to five years, for adults with stable oral health.
X-Ray Safety and Radiation Exposure
Digital radiography delivers minimal radiation exposure. A complete set of dental X-rays exposes you to less radiation than you’d receive during a short airplane flight or a typical day outdoors. Modern equipment focuses narrow X-ray beams precisely where needed, limiting exposure to surrounding tissues.
Lead aprons and thyroid collars provide additional protection, particularly important for children and pregnant patients. While X-rays during pregnancy should be minimized, emergencies requiring imaging can be managed safely with proper shielding and technique modifications.
Our equipment undergoes regular calibration and safety testing. State regulations require these checks to ensure machines operate within established safety parameters, giving you confidence in every image we capture.
For Patients From Wicker Park and West Town
Our Lincoln Park location offers convenient access for patients throughout Chicago’s near north neighborhoods. If you’re coming from Wicker Park or West Town, you’ll find our office easily accessible via public transit or car, with the diagnostic technology and treatment expertise you’d expect from a modern dental practice.
The short trip to our practice means you can have X-rays taken, review findings with your dentist, and begin treatment planning all in one efficient appointment. No need to visit multiple locations or wait days for results from off-site imaging facilities.
Advanced Diagnostic X-Rays at Floss Lincoln Park
Dr. Delone Jouja completed his dental education at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois, bringing current knowledge of diagnostic techniques to every examination. Dr. Martha Silva’s background as a U.S. Army dentist provided extensive experience with a range of imaging modalities and diagnostic challenges. She’s currently enrolled in a two-year Mastership program through the University of Florida School of Dentistry, which includes more than 600 hours of advanced training across all dental specialties.
At Floss Lincoln Park, we combine digital radiography with other diagnostic tools to provide comprehensive images of your oral health. This thorough approach helps us develop treatment plans addressing current issues while preventing future problems. Whether you need routine checkups, restorative work, or cosmetic improvements, accurate diagnosis forms the foundation of successful outcomes. Contact our team to schedule your next appointment with comprehensive diagnostic imaging.
