Get A Clearer Picture with Dental X-Rays at Whiteman Dental Associates
Dental X-rays aren’t just a routine step; they’re a window into the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. At Whiteman Dental Associates, we use X-rays thoughtfully and only when they’re truly needed. They help us see what the eye can’t, catch concerns early, and give you a fuller understanding of your dental health.
We know some patients feel uncertain about X-rays. You’ll never be rushed through the process here. Everything is explained clearly, your questions are always welcome, and your comfort is never an afterthought.
What Are Dental X-Rays?
Dental X-rays are diagnostic images that help us see beneath the surface of your smile. They show things like cavities between teeth, bone loss, infection, and how teeth are positioned under the gums. Some changes happen slowly and silently. X-rays allow us to track what’s happening over time and step in before something becomes more serious.
They’re a simple, low-disruption way for our team to plan your care with precision. At Whiteman Dental, we approach them with the same care and clarity as every other part of your visit.
Types of Dental X-Rays We Use
Not all X-rays are the same. Depending on what we’re looking for, we may use one or a combination of the following:
Bitewing X-rays
These are typically taken during routine checkups. They help us detect cavities between the teeth and monitor bone levels. They’re small, quick, and focused on just one area at a time.
Periapical X-rays
This type of image gives us a detailed look at a single tooth from crown to root. They’re useful when we’re watching a specific issue, like a potential infection or abscess.
Panoramic X-rays
These show your entire mouth in one image, including the jaw joints and sinuses. They help us evaluate wisdom teeth, jaw alignment, cysts, and overall bone structure.
Full-Mouth Series
Often used for new patients or those with complex dental histories, this series gives us a complete baseline. It’s not something we do at every visit, but it’s valuable when creating or updating a comprehensive treatment plan.
All of our imaging is done with digital X-ray technology, which produces crisp, immediate results with much lower radiation exposure than traditional methods. It also allows us to easily share and review your images with you in real time. No wait, no guesswork.
When Dental X-Rays Are Recommended
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all dentistry, and that includes X-rays. Your age, oral health history, and current concerns all play a role in how often imaging is appropriate.
X-rays may be recommended:
- During routine checkups to monitor for hidden decay
- To follow up on a tooth that’s causing pain or sensitivity
- Before placing a crown, bridge, or implant
- To assess healing after a root canal or surgical procedure
- As part of your first visit, if you’re new to our practice
We’ll always explain why an X-ray is being suggested, what it will show us, and how it will support your care.
What the Process Feels Like
Getting an X-ray at Whiteman Dental is quick and comfortable. We take time to guide you through each step so you know exactly what’s happening and why.
You’ll be seated in a relaxed position, and a small sensor or plate will be gently placed inside your mouth. Our team will make sure it’s positioned properly before stepping back for the quick scan. Most images take just a few seconds.
If you have a sensitive gag reflex or limited jaw mobility, we’ll adjust the approach to keep you comfortable. You won’t be rushed, and you’ll always be treated with patience and care.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
This is a common question, and the honest answer is yes — when done thoughtfully and sparingly.
At Whiteman Dental, we use low-radiation digital X-rays. These emit significantly less radiation than older film-based systems. In fact, the amount of radiation from a typical bitewing X-ray is about the same as what you’d get during a short plane flight or just walking around outside on a sunny day.
We also follow strict safety protocols, using protective shielding and only taking images when they’re truly helpful. Your health, both short- and long-term, is always our top priority.
How Dental X-Rays Help with Early Detection
Some dental issues start quietly. A cavity might form under a filling. Bone loss could begin without pain. A developing wisdom tooth may shift in a way that affects the entire bite.
X-rays help us spot these changes early, when they’re still easy to treat. That means less discomfort, less invasive procedures, and often lower costs in the long run.
In short, X-rays support proactive care. They give us (and you) more clarity about what’s happening and what to do next.
What Happens After the X-Ray?
Once your images are taken, we’ll review them with you right away. Dr. Whiteman walks you through what he sees and what it means. We’ll talk through any areas to monitor, explain next steps if something needs attention, and answer every question you have.
There’s no mystery, no pressure, and no sales pitch. Just a clear conversation about your health, based on real insight.
Cost of Dental X-Rays and Insurance
Most dental insurance plans cover diagnostic X-rays, especially when they’re part of a routine exam. If your plan doesn’t, or if you don’t have insurance, we’ll always tell you the cost in advance.
We believe in transparency. That means no surprise fees. Just clear pricing and honest recommendations.
In many cases, X-rays help prevent larger expenses later by catching issues early. It’s one of the reasons we view them as a valuable, supportive part of care, not just a checklist item.
Why X-Rays Look Different at Whiteman Dental
Because we’re not a typical clinic, the experience here is different. Many of our patients have been with us for years. That continuity matters.
We also do much of our work in-house, which gives us more control over quality and timing. It means your images are part of a bigger picture, one that reflects thoughtful care and attention to detail.
Schedule Your Next Visit
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, or if something feels off, we’re here to help. We’ll only recommend what you truly need, and we’ll talk you through it every step of the way.
Reach out to schedule a visit or ask a question. You’ll get clear answers, kind support, and a space that feels more like a studio than a clinic.