Digital X-Rays in Plain City, UT

What Is a Digital X-Ray?

During a digital x-ray, a small sensor is placed inside your mouth, instead of the traditional paper tabs that fit awkwardly and often cause pain. The sensor is connected to a computer by a thin, unobtrusive wire and records a highly detailed image of your mouth. The image is then sent to the computer, where it is instantly projected onto a screen for the dentist to review.


The two primary types of dental x-rays are intraoral (taken from inside the mouth) and extraoral (taken from the outside). Bitewing x-rays are the most common type of intraoral radiograph. Traditionally, uncomfortable pieces of film were placed inside the mouth for the patient to bite down on while the x-ray was being taken. With digital technology, the small sensors make this type of imaging much more comfortable. A panoramic x-ray is an extraoral x-ray in which a machine rotates around the head. The resulting images allow the dentist to see the entire mouth at once.

What Are the Benefits of Digital X-Rays?


  • Reduced chair time and wait time — results are instant and highly accurate
  • Improved imaging — images can also be sharpened, enlarged, and optimized in a variety of ways that improve diagnostic proficiency
  • Less radiation — the radiation exposure from digital imaging is 80% less than from traditional x-rays
  • Decreased environmental impact — digital x-rays eliminate the material and chemical waste produced by traditional film-based x-rays

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often do I need to have a dental x-ray taken?

    The frequency with which you will need to have dental X-rays depends on your overall oral health. If you are suffering from dental decay or disease, you may need to be x-rayed every six months. If you are in good oral health, you may only need a dental x-ray every couple of years.

  • Are x-rays dangerous?

    Though dental x-rays do require very low doses of radiation exposure, they are considered very safe. The use of digital technology further reduces the level of radiation you receive from dental x-rays.

  • Is it safe to have dental x-rays taken while pregnant?

    Dental x-rays are very safe. However, if you are pregnant, it’s best to minimize dental treatments and avoid dental x-rays if possible. In the case of a dental emergency, Dr. Peter Mortenson will take all precautions available to minimize even the slightest risk to your baby. 

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