Digital and CT Radiology

Digital Radiology

Digital radiology has become the standard for routine dental X-rays. Unlike traditional film X-rays, digital sensors capture images instantly and with far greater clarity. This allows Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin to identify issues like cavities, bone loss, infections, and impacted teeth long before you might feel symptoms.

One of the greatest benefits of this technique is safety. Digital X-rays use 80 to 90 percent less radiation than the old film method. For perspective, a single digital dental X-ray typically exposes you to less radiation than a short airplane flight or even spending a day in the sun. Because the exposure is so minimal, digital imaging is considered safe for adults and children, and we take additional precautions like lead aprons as well.

Cone Beam CT Scan (CBCT)

For more complex cases, we may recommend a Cone Beam CT scan. This specialty imaging technology creates a 3D view of your teeth, bone structure, airway, nerves, and jaw joints. CBCT is especially valuable for planning dental implants, evaluating wisdom teeth, diagnosing TMJ issues, and assessing facial trauma or infections.

While a CT scan sounds like a major medical procedure, dental CBCT uses a much lower radiation dose than traditional medical CT scans. The scan is quick, comfortable, and lasts only about 20 seconds. Because it gathers detailed information in one rotation, it allows Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin to make more accurate decisions and reduce the need for exploratory procedures.

Safety is Our Top Priority

Both digital and CT radiology are designed with patient safety as the top priority. Dentists follow the ALARA principle, which stands for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable,” meaning radiation exposure is kept to the smallest amount needed to achieve a clear diagnostic image. We will only recommend imaging when it is necessary for your health and treatment.

Living in a city as active as Los Angeles means that oral health problems can affect everything from your confidence to your busy lifestyle. With today’s advanced imaging tools, the dental team at Esthetic Professionals can diagnose sooner, plan better, and treat more precisely — all while keeping you safe.

If you have questions about digital X-rays or CT imaging, Drs. Bruce and Kristi Crispin are always happy to explain how these technologies work and why they are beneficial for your care. Schedule a consultation at our office in Tarzana, also serving surrounding cities including Calabasas, Encino, Reseda, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, and the Los Angeles area.