Digital imaging is changing the way your dentist diagnoses, plans, and monitors your oral health. At Ivy Lane Dentistry in Terrell Hills, we use digital x-rays and iTero scanning to give you clearer answers, faster appointments, and safer care for every age. If you have wondered what makes digital different, how often you actually need x-rays, or what the latest imaging tools can do for your smile, this guide is for you.
What counts as digital dental imaging?
Digital dental imaging refers to tools that capture pictures of your teeth and jaws electronically. Instead of film, your dentist uses sensors or scanners to create detailed images that appear on screen within seconds. Common types include:
- Digital bitewing and periapical x-rays, targeted views that show cavities between teeth, fillings, roots, and bone levels.
- Digital panoramic x-rays, a wide view that captures both jaws, wisdom teeth, and the jaw joints.
- Cone beam computed tomography, a 3D scan used for implants, complex root canals, or impacted teeth.
- iTero intraoral scanning, a handheld camera that creates a precise 3D model of your teeth and bite without gooey impressions.
Each technology answers a different clinical question. Your dentist chooses the right option based on your age, risk for decay, symptoms, and treatment needs.
Are digital dental x-rays better?
Yes, for most patients digital x-rays are better than traditional film in several ways:
- Lower radiation: Digital sensors typically use a fraction of the radiation of film. Protective measures like thyroid collars and lead aprons add another layer of safety.
- Faster results: Images display instantly, so your dentist can explain findings on the spot.
- Sharper detail: Digital images can be enlarged and enhanced for contrast, which helps detect small cavities and early bone changes.
- Easier monitoring: Because your images are stored securely, your dentist can compare today’s scan with past visits to track subtle changes over time.
- Greener process: No chemicals, no film, and less waste.
At Ivy Lane Dentistry, we pair digital x-rays with iTero scanning to give you a complete picture of tooth structure, bite, and gum health while keeping exposure low.
What is the difference between a normal x-ray and a digital x-ray?
When people say “normal” x-ray, they often mean film. Film x-rays require chemical processing and cannot be adjusted once developed. Digital x-rays use electronic sensors that capture the image instantly. With digital, your dentist can zoom in, adjust brightness, and measure dimensions right on the screen. Film images are static and more likely to miss early or subtle issues. Digital files are also easy to share with specialists if you need a second opinion or coordinated care.
What is the new technology for dental imaging?
Several advances are changing daily care:
- iTero intraoral scanning: This creates a precise 3D model of your teeth and gums in minutes. It helps with crowns, clear aligners, night guards, and bite assessments. It also tracks changes over time so you can see wear, recession, or tooth movement clearly.
- Low dose digital sensors: Modern sensors capture high quality images with very low exposure, which is especially important for children and patients who need more frequent monitoring.
- Cone beam CT: Your dentist can map nerve locations, bone volume, and sinus anatomy in 3D. This improves planning for dental implants, orthodontics, and complex root canal cases.
These tools support safer, more predictable treatment. For example, iTero scanning often replaces old impression material, which improves comfort and accuracy for children and adults alike.
How often should you get dental x-rays?
It depends on your risk for tooth decay and gum disease, your age, and your symptoms. General guidance:
- Children and teens with higher cavity risk: Often every 6 to 12 months to catch decay early.
- Adults with low cavity risk and healthy gums: Bitewings every 12 to 18 months.
- Patients with a history of decay, many restorations, or gum disease: More frequent imaging as advised to monitor changes.
- New patients or those with pain, swelling, or trauma: X-rays targeted to the problem area right away.
At Ivy Lane Dentistry, we tailor x-ray frequency to your unique needs, not a one size schedule. Our goal is the lowest exposure that still provides a complete clinical picture.
How much does a digital dental scan cost?
Costs vary by scan type, your treatment plan, and your insurance coverage. A set of digital bitewings, a panoramic film, an iTero scan, or a cone beam CT each have different fees. Many plans cover routine diagnostic x-rays during exams, while 3D imaging for implants or orthodontics may have different coverage rules. We accept many plans, including Tricare, and we explain copays and any out of pocket costs before treatment. If you would like a personalized estimate, call our front desk and we will review your benefits and discuss options that fit your goals and budget.
Why kids, adults, and seniors benefit from digital imaging
- Kids and teens: Low dose sensors and quick images make visits faster and more comfortable. Early detection helps prevent bigger problems during growth spurts.
- Adults: Enhanced detail finds small decay between teeth and tracks gum health, which protects long term oral and overall wellness.
- Seniors: Imaging helps evaluate bone levels, tooth fractures, dry mouth related decay, and the fit or planning of dentures or implants with greater precision.
Our team uses a calm, step by step approach so every age group feels informed and at ease.
What to expect at your visit
- A focused conversation: We ask about your symptoms, health history, and goals to decide the right images.
- A quick, comfortable process: Sensors are slim and scans take seconds. iTero scanning is touch free and impression free.
- A clear review: We display your images on screen, explain findings in plain language, and answer your questions.
- A tailored plan: From preventive care to implants or orthodontics, we use your images to plan efficient, precise treatment.
If you feel anxious about x-rays or impressions, ask about our sedation dental services. Comfort is always part of the plan.
How digital imaging supports better treatment plans
Accurate images lead to accurate care. Digital x-rays pinpoint early cavities so we can treat them before they spread. iTero scanning captures bite relationships that matter for fillings, crowns, and aligners. Cone beam CT maps nerve pathways and bone for safe implant placement. The result is more predictable outcomes and fewer surprises.
Your next step
If it has been a while since your last checkup, or you want to experience a more precise, patient friendly approach, schedule a visit with Ivy Lane Dentistry in San Antonio, TX. We are committed to clear communication about findings, options, and costs, and we use technology that makes every visit safer and more efficient for your family.
In summary
Digital dental imaging improves accuracy, reduces radiation, and speeds up diagnosis. Digital x-rays outshine film in detail and efficiency. iTero scanning enhances comfort and precision for crowns, aligners, and bite analysis. Imaging schedules are personalized, and costs depend on the scan type and your insurance benefits. At Ivy Lane Dentistry, you receive careful, transparent guidance and the latest tools for healthy smiles at every age. Contact us today.
