Dental Scans vs Dental X-Rays
Serving Patients in Vancouver WA
Think of dental x-rays like looking through your teeth, while dental scans are like taking a 3D photo of their surface.
Both tools help professionals like us see different things about your oral health.
Dental offices, like Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry, invest in this type of technology because we believe you deserve dental care that’s effective and pleasant. Our team stays up to date with the latest dental tools to make your visits more comfortable and efficient.
What is the difference between dental scans and dental x-rays?
Dental x-rays use minor amounts of radiation and work like a special camera that can see inside your teeth and below your gums. Their digital sensors capture detailed images of areas we can’t see with our eyes alone. These images show us the roots of your teeth, your jawbone, and even problems hiding between teeth.
We also use a special 3D x-ray tool called the cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) machine, which creates incredibly detailed 3D images of your entire mouth structure.
Dental scans work differently. Instead of looking inside your teeth, they create perfect 3D models of your teeth’s surfaces.
Our Primescan digital scanner moves around your mouth like a small wand, capturing thousands of tiny pictures that combine into one accurate 3D model.
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When We Recommend Dental Scans vs X-Rays
Each tool solves different dental problems, and often we use both to give you the best care possible.
We recommend x-rays when:
- It’s time for your regular checkup (once or twice a year).
- You’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity.
- We need to check for cavities between teeth.
- You have gum disease symptoms (like bleeding or swelling).
- We’re planning a root canal or checking an existing one.
- We need to check your bone density for dental implants.
If you’re getting implants, this technology lets us do a virtual surgery first to place them perfectly in a 3D model of your mouth. This makes your actual procedure faster, safer, and more comfortable.
Our CBCT 3D x-ray machine becomes especially important for complex procedures.
We recommend dental scans when:
- You need a crown, bridge, or veneer.
- You’re getting a custom nightguard for teeth grinding.
- You need a retainer (or other orthodontic device).
- We’re documenting changes in your teeth over time.
- We need surgical guides for dental implants.
Remember those messy, uncomfortable impression trays that made you feel like gagging? Gone. Worried about whether your crown will fit perfectly? Our digital scans are so precise that crowns fit right the first time, meaning fewer appointments and less time in the dental chair.
The beauty of our Primescan system is how it solves common patient frustrations.
What to Expect at Your Visit
When you come to the Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry office for x-rays or scans, we make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
For x-rays, you’ll sit in our comfortable dental chair while we position a small sensor next to your teeth. We’ll ask you to bite down gently and hold still for just a second while we capture the image. The whole process usually takes less than ten minutes.
When we use our CBCT 3D x-ray machine, you’ll stand or sit while the machine rotates around your head for about 20 seconds. It’s a completely painless process, and you won’t feel anything.
For dental scans, we will use the Primescan wand to slowly move around each tooth. You’ll see your teeth appear on our computer screen in real-time. It’s actually pretty cool to watch! The entire scan usually takes 1-3 minutes, and you can take breaks whenever you need to. No bad-tasting materials, no waiting for impressions to set, and no discomfort.
After either procedure, we’ll show you the images or scans on our computer screens to help you understand what we see. We’ll point out any areas of concern and explain our recommendations clearly. You’ll leave knowing exactly what’s happening with your oral health.
Get the Most Advanced Care at Lewis Family & Implant Dentistry
Whether you need routine x-rays for your checkup or precise digital scans for restorative work, our team is here to provide the most comfortable, efficient dental care possible.
No more dreading the dentist because of outdated, uncomfortable procedures. Your teeth will thank you, and you might even find yourself looking forward to your next visit.
Ready to experience the difference modern dental technology can make? Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment.