Reasons We Still Use Bitewing X-rays

Posted on 6/7/2021 by Dr. Jae Seon Kim

X-rays are a routine part of your dental checkup. We use invisible electro-magnetic waves to give us exact images of your teeth and gums. These x-rays are safe, efficient, and precise. We are able to see even a microscopic amount of tooth decay on x-rays that cannot be detected to the naked eye.

Taking Bitewings

Bitewings are a specific type of x-ray that we commonly utilize to help alert us to gum disease and cavities on all surfaces of the teeth and between the teeth. The name bitewing is coined after the small tabs that the patient bites to hold the x-ray film in place. Our technician places the frame inside the mouth of the patient and asks them to bite down on the tabs. As the patient is still, the technician positions the camera, which will produce a safe amount of x-ray energy to expose the film. This process is very quick for both the patient and the technician. Within a few minutes, we can take bitewing x-rays that will allow us to uncover a myriad of dental issues. While we use this technology routinely, we do not over-expose our patients and take more x-rays than are necessary.

Why We Use Bitewings

Bitewings allow us to see things that may not be seen by a visual examination. Bitewings clearly portray the depth of mouth lesions. X-rays are not invasive, nor do they damage the teeth. We like to keep our bitewing x-rays on file so we can refer back to them in future examinations. It is helpful to compare older images with more recent images to assess the growth of any mouth lesions.

Call Today

We look forward to seeing you at your next routine checkup. We want to help you to have the best total picture of your mouth as well as the best possible treatment for any dental issues you may have .

Office Hours
Monday: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM–2:30 PM

Location
2046 Westlake Ave. N. Suite 204
Seattle, WA 98109

Contact
Office: (206)284-4505
Fax: (206) 284-4757

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Pacific Modern Dentistry, 2046 Westlake Ave. N., Suite 204 Seattle, WA 98109 / (206)284-4505 / pacificmoderndentistry.com / 3/19/2023 / Related Terms: dental implants Seattle WA /