Yuma's Best Dentist
We Believe In Delivering The Safest Dentistry
Safer, faster, and more accurate than traditional film x-rays. Our digital x-ray technology provides instant, high-quality images with 90% less radiation exposure.
At Arizona Avenue Dentistry, we use state-of-the-art digital radiography to diagnose dental issues quickly and accurately while keeping your safety our top priority. Digital x-rays allow Dr. Grady to spot problems early, plan treatments with precision, and show you exactly what's happening with your teeth in real-time.
If you've been avoiding dental visits due to concerns about radiation or uncomfortable x-ray procedures, our modern digital system addresses both of those worries. You'll experience faster appointments, greater comfort, and peace of mind knowing you're receiving the safest imaging available.
Digital x-rays use electronic sensors instead of traditional photographic film to capture images of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. These sensors instantly transmit images to a computer screen, where Dr. Grady can view, enhance, and analyze them immediately.
Unlike old-style film x-rays that required chemical processing and waiting time, digital radiography provides instant results. This means your appointment moves faster, and we can discuss findings with you right away rather than making you wait for films to develop.
The technology works by directing a very small amount of radiation through your teeth onto the digital sensor. The sensor converts this into a digital image that appears on our monitor within seconds. We can zoom in, adjust contrast, and even color-code areas of concern to help you understand your oral health better.
Switching from traditional film to digital x-rays represents a major advancement in dental care. Here's how this technology benefits you:
Digital x-rays emit significantly less radiation than traditional film x-rays. This makes them exceptionally safe for regular use, even for children and pregnant women (when necessary and with proper precautions). The reduced radiation exposure means we can take x-rays more frequently when needed without health concerns.
Digital images appear on our computer screen within seconds. No more waiting for film to be processed in a darkroom. This means we can review your x-rays with you during the same appointment, answer your questions immediately, and move forward with treatment planning without delay.
Digital x-rays produce incredibly detailed, high-resolution images that can be enlarged, enhanced, and adjusted for better viewing. Dr. Grady can zoom in on specific teeth, adjust brightness and contrast, and even use color overlays to highlight areas of concern. This level of detail helps catch problems earlier.
Traditional x-rays require chemical processing and create hazardous waste. Digital x-rays eliminate the need for toxic chemicals, film, and photographic paper. This is better for the environment and safer for our team. Plus, digital images never fade or deteriorate like old film x-rays.
Digital images can be easily stored in your electronic dental record and shared with specialists or insurance companies instantly via secure email. If you need to see a specialist, we can send your x-rays ahead of time. No more waiting for copies or worrying about lost films.
Seeing is believing. When you can view your x-rays on a large monitor right in front of you, it's much easier to understand what Dr. Grady is explaining. We can compare before-and-after images side-by-side, show you exactly where cavities are forming, and help you visualize treatment outcomes.
Digital x-rays help Dr. Grady diagnose a wide range of dental conditions, many of which aren't visible during a regular visual examination:
Regular x-rays allow us to catch these problems early when they're easier and less expensive to treat. Early detection can save you from more extensive procedures down the road.
Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Grady may recommend different types of digital x-rays:
These show the upper and lower back teeth in a single view. They're excellent for detecting cavities between teeth and checking bone levels. Bitewings are typically taken once a year during routine checkups.
These capture the entire tooth from crown to root tip, including the surrounding bone. They help diagnose problems with tooth roots, bone infections, or abscesses. We use these when you have symptoms like pain or swelling in a specific area.
A single image that shows all your teeth, both jaws, sinuses, and surrounding structures. This comprehensive view is valuable for treatment planning, checking wisdom teeth, evaluating jaw problems, and getting an overall picture of your oral health.
The frequency of x-rays depends on your individual oral health needs. Dr. Grady follows the American Dental Association's guidelines and considers several factors when recommending x-rays:
Dr. Grady will never recommend x-rays unless they're necessary for your care. We take your safety seriously and only use radiation when the diagnostic benefits outweigh any minimal risk.
Absolutely. Digital x-rays are one of the safest imaging technologies available in dentistry. The amount of radiation you receive from a full set of dental x-rays is extremely low—comparable to the radiation you're exposed to during a short airplane flight or a day in the sun.
Here's what makes them safe:
The risk from dental x-rays is exceptionally small, especially when compared to the risk of missing a serious dental problem. Undetected cavities, infections, or bone loss can lead to pain, tooth loss, and more complex treatments if not caught early.
Getting a digital x-ray is quick, painless, and much more comfortable than traditional x-rays:
The entire process typically takes just 5-10 minutes. Many patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable it is compared to older x-ray methods.
We understand that x-rays can be challenging for young children or patients with special needs. Our team has extensive experience adapting the process to accommodate every patient's unique needs:
Dr. Grady's 18+ years of experience includes extensive work with patients who need extra patience and understanding. We'll never rush anyone or force a procedure. If your child or family member needs x-rays but you're concerned about the process, please discuss your worries with us. We're here to make the experience as positive as possible.
At Arizona Avenue Dentistry, we combine advanced technology with compassionate, judgment-free care. Whether you're due for a routine checkup or addressing a dental concern, our digital x-rays help us provide you with the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Call us today at (928) 782-3685 or request an appointment online. Our bilingual team is here to answer your questions and make your visit comfortable.
We're proud of the care we give, but hearing from our patients means everything. Read the reviews that reflect our commitment to comfort, compassion and exceptional dentistry.