X-rays we'd take on ourselves
Our digital sensors deliver sharper images at a fraction of the radiation of older film systems. The image appears on the screen seconds after capture, no waiting, no chemicals, no extra exposures because of a bad shot.
Types of dental X-rays you'll see at Cusp Dental
Bitewings show how upper and lower teeth meet and reveal early decay between teeth. Periapicals capture the entire tooth from crown to root. Panoramics give a wide view of jaws, sinuses, and developing teeth. We take only what we need to make the right clinical decision.
Safety, especially for kids
We always use a lead apron and thyroid collar, and we follow ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines for everyone. For kids, we space X-rays appropriately and only when they help us catch something we couldn't see otherwise.
What X-rays detect that we can't see
An X-ray reveals what a clinical exam can't. The most common findings on routine bitewings: decay between teeth (one of the most common cavity locations, completely invisible without imaging), decay underneath existing fillings or crowns, bone loss from gum disease (often present before any pocket-depth changes), abscesses at the root tips before pain develops, and impacted teeth or unusual growth patterns.
The point of routine X-rays is to catch problems at the millimeter scale rather than the centimeter scale, that's the difference between a small filling and a root canal, or between scaling and bone-loss treatment. Caught early, things are simpler, cheaper, and less painful.
How often you need X-rays
X-ray frequency varies by patient risk. Adults with no cavities and stable gum health: bitewings every 18–24 months, panoramic every 5 years. Adults with active cavity risk or gum disease history: bitewings every 6–12 months. Kids with developing dentition: bitewings every 6–12 months because cavities progress faster through baby-tooth enamel. Pregnant patients: postponed unless truly urgent.
The goal is the minimum X-rays needed to monitor your specific risk profile, not a fixed schedule applied to everyone. Dr. Sidhu reviews and explains the X-ray plan at every visit so you understand why each image is being taken.
What to expect, step by step
Here's exactly what happens at a digital dental x-rays appointment at Cusp Dental, from the moment you walk in to the followup.
-
Indication
Dr. Sidhu confirms why each X-ray is needed, a specific clinical question (decay, infection, wisdom-tooth position) rather than 'just because.'
-
Shielding
A lead apron with thyroid collar is placed before any X-ray. Digital sensors use a fraction of the radiation of film, and we use the lowest necessary dose.
-
Image capture
Bitewings (between back teeth) take 30 seconds. A panoramic takes ~20 seconds and shows the full jaw. Cone-beam CT for surgical planning takes ~30 seconds.
-
Review and discussion
Images appear on-screen immediately. We zoom in, walk through findings with you, and explain what they mean, no medical jargon.
-
Records and frequency
Images are added to your record. We use them to compare year-over-year, catching small changes early. You can request copies anytime.
Pricing & insurance
We don't post per-service pricing here because every case is different. Call us at (916) 451-4856 for a personalized estimate. We verify your insurance benefits at no charge and give you a written all-in estimate before any treatment begins.
- Insurance
- Bitewings and exams are typically covered at 100% by PPO plans for preventive care. Panoramic and CT may have annual frequency limits.
- Financing
- X-rays are part of standard preventive visits and don't usually require financing. They're billed separately when standalone (e.g., a CBCT for surgical planning).
We use digital X-rays exclusively, 80–90% less radiation than the old film versions. A typical bitewing series exposes you to less radiation than a cross-country flight.
Common questions about digital dental x-rays
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes, modern digital X-rays use a tiny fraction of the radiation a person receives from natural background sources in a typical day. We still take them only when clinically indicated and always use protective shielding.
Do I need X-rays at every cleaning?
No. Routine bitewings are usually taken once a year for adults with stable oral health, and a full-mouth or panoramic series every 3–5 years. We'll tell you when something is due.
Are dental X-rays covered by insurance?
Most PPO plans cover routine bitewings at 100% and a full-mouth or panoramic series once every 3–5 years. We verify your benefits before taking any non-routine images.
Ready to book your digital dental x-rays appointment?
We're in-network with most major PPO plans, verify your benefits at no cost, and never push treatment you don't need. Call us or book online, same-day visits are usually available.
