Digital X-Rays in Kitchener-Waterloo
Digital x-rays use an electronic sensor to capture detailed images of your teeth, roots, and surrounding bone, using significantly less radiation than traditional film. At Westheights Dental Centre, we use digital imaging to detect problems early and to show you clearly what our dentists see during your examination.
Benefits of Digital X-Rays
Digital radiography offers several advantages over traditional film x-rays:
- Up to 90% less radiation than film x-rays
- Instant on-screen images, no film processing
- High-resolution images that can be enlarged
- Earlier detection of developing problems
- No processing chemicals used
- Digital files easy to share with specialists
What Can Digital X-Rays Detect?
Many dental problems develop below the surface, where a visual exam alone cannot reach. Digital x-rays allow your dentist to identify:
- Cavities between teeth or under fillings
- Infections and abscesses at tooth roots
- Bone loss from periodontal disease
- Impacted or developing teeth
- Cracks and fractures below the surface
- Tooth and root position before treatment
Identifying these issues early generally allows for simpler, less invasive, and less costly treatment.
What to Expect
Taking digital x-rays is a quick, comfortable, and painless part of your visit:
Sensor Placement
A small, slim sensor is positioned in your mouth to capture the image. Our team positions it carefully to keep the process comfortable.
Image Capture
The x-ray is taken in a few seconds and the image appears immediately on our chairside screen, with no film processing required.
Review With Your Dentist
Your dentist enlarges and reviews the images with you, explaining any findings and answering your questions in plain language.
Digital Record Keeping
Your x-rays are stored securely in your dental file, allowing your dentist to compare images over time and track changes between visits.
Caring for Your Safety
At Westheights Dental Centre, we take only the x-rays that are necessary for your care. Digital sensors significantly reduce radiation exposure compared with film, and we use protective lead aprons and thyroid collars during every x-ray. If you are pregnant or think you may be, please let us know so we can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are digital x-rays safe?+
Yes. Digital x-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film x-rays, making them one of the safest imaging tools in dentistry. We also use protective lead aprons and only take x-rays when they are needed for your care.
How often do I need x-rays?+
It depends on your individual needs. Many patients benefit from a checkup series once a year, while others with ongoing treatment or a higher risk of decay may need them more often. We always follow guidelines and take only the images necessary for your situation.
What is the difference between digital and traditional x-rays?+
Traditional x-rays use film that must be chemically developed before it can be viewed. Digital x-rays use a sensor, so the image appears instantly on a computer screen, uses far less radiation, and can be enlarged, enhanced and stored electronically.
Do digital x-rays hurt?+
No. The sensor is small and smooth, and placing it takes only a few seconds. If you have a sensitive gag reflex, let us know, as we have techniques to make the process more comfortable for you.
Why do I need x-rays if nothing hurts?+
Many dental problems, like cavities between teeth, early infections or bone loss, start silently and cause no pain until they are advanced. X-rays let us catch these issues early, when treatment is simpler, less invasive and less costly.
Can you share my x-rays with a specialist?+
Yes. Because your images are stored digitally, they can be sent to a specialist or another office instantly if a referral is needed, with no films to carry or mail.
A Clearer View of Your Oral Health
Contact Westheights Dental Centre to schedule a consultation and learn how digital x-rays support your care.
Request an Appointment