Alafaya Center for Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

Examination and X-Rays

Since most dental conditions are painless at first, if you don’t regularly visit our office, you may not be aware of dental problems until they cause significant damage.  For best results, schedule regular dental check-ups every six months and more often if you’re at higher risk for oral diseases.  During your exam Dr. Michaelson will utilize x-rays, intra-oral photography, periodontal charting, and study models to do a comprehensive analysis of your oral health. He will also complete a Vizilight oral cancer screening to check for signs of abnormal tissues.

X-rays enable dentists to look for signs of dental problems that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth and problems below the gum line.  Some patients have expressed concern about x-rays emitting excessive radiation. We use digital radiography which is a form of X-ray imaging where digital X-ray sensors are used instead of traditional photographic film X-ray images.  Faster and easier than conventional X-rays, they offer the ability to digitally transfer and enhance images of problem areas on a computer screen next to the patient’s chair, allowing for better diagnosing and patient education.  Most importantly, they emit up to 90 percent less radiation than conventional radiography.

Intraoral cameras are tiny cameras on a wand. They can be used in conjunction with computers or television monitors to take magnified pictures in the mouth.  We use this technology on most every appointment. The pictures generated allow patients to have an up close look at what we are recommending and the treatment once it has been rendered.