Oral Radiology Services in Newark and New Brunswick, NJ
Oral Radiology is a dental specialty that is essential for diagnosing and managing a wide range of oral conditions, from cavities and tooth impaction to tumors. Need an oral radiograph? At Rutgers Health University Dental Associates, you can expect nothing but the highest quality care and expertise from our dental specialists at our family-friendly facilities in Newark and New Brunswick, New Jersey.
Oral Radiology Defined
Oral radiology is a procedure that carefully uses radiation to produce X-rays images, 3-D images, and other radiographic pictures of the head, neck, teeth, and jaw. These help our dentists examine structures in the mouth that aren’t usually visible. As a result, we can diagnose hard-to-see conditions and plan advanced treatments.
There are two kinds of oral radiology procedures, including:
Intraoral
This involves placing safe sensors inside the mouth to detect and identify problems. Intraoral procedures are ideal for visualizing an individual tooth or groups of teeth. We use them to detect decay, disease, and bone loss, as well as track the development and movement of teeth.
Extraoral
Extraoral radiology includes panoramic and cephalometric images, as well as three-dimensional cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Since extraoral radiology can produce images of the entire jaw, it is used to diagnose tumors and cysts, measure the positioning of teeth, and plan implants.
Conditions We Identify
At Rutgers Health University Dental Associates, oral radiographs are often part of a routine checkup. This is because they’re useful for identifying any number of conditions, including but not limited to:
Cavities
As bacteria builds up on a tooth, it enters the damaged enamel and causes cavities. Oral radiology allows dentists to detect cavities that wouldn’t otherwise be visible and measure the extent of the decay.
Periodontal Disease
Prolonged bacterial buildup can also cause periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, which leads to sore and receding gums, sensitive teeth, bleeding, and even tooth loss. A radiology examination can identify infection and any related bone loss.
Tooth Impaction
When a tooth fails to erupt in to the mouth, it can push other teeth around and lead to crowding and decay. Tooth impaction is especially common with wisdom teeth and can be identified with oral radiology.
Abnormalities
Oral radiology is helpful in identifying abnormalities like cleft palate, jaw deformation, and tumors. With a radiograph, oral surgeons can evaluate the anomaly and plan the best way to correct it.
Implants
If you need a dental implant, oral radiology is a necessary part of planning the procedure, as it is used to check whether your jaw bone can support the implant.
Trust Our Experts
Earlier detection often means earlier treatment so you can have a healthy mouth sooner. We are always implementing new, state-of-the-art technologies to continue advancing the field of oral radiology. This means that you can benefit from clear and accurate diagnoses, faster treatments, and improved dental health and overall well-being.
We aren’t just specialists in radiology. We are also highly respected professors who treat patients, teach classes, and advance the field of oral medicine. Experience the difference for yourself by consulting with one of our oral radiologists or surgeons today. Schedule an appointment today or contact us in Newark at 973-972-2444 or New Brunswick at 732-235-5050.