Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes, dental X-rays are extremely safe. Modern digital X-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. The amount of radiation exposure from a full set of dental X-rays is equivalent to the natural background radiation you're exposed to in a single day. We use lead aprons for additional protection.

How often do I need dental X-rays?

The frequency depends on your oral health status. Most patients need bitewing X-rays once a year to check for cavities. Full-mouth X-rays (panoramic or FMX) are typically taken every 3 to 5 years. Patients with gum disease or other concerns may need more frequent imaging.

What can dental X-rays detect?

Dental X-rays reveal issues not visible during a visual exam, including cavities between teeth, bone loss from gum disease, infections at tooth roots, impacted teeth, cysts or tumors, and developmental abnormalities. They're essential diagnostic tools for comprehensive oral health assessment.

Can I refuse dental X-rays?

Yes, you can decline X-rays, but we strongly recommend them for accurate diagnosis. Without X-rays, we cannot detect many serious conditions until they become painful or visible, often requiring more extensive and costly treatment. We'll explain why specific X-rays are needed and address any concerns you have.

Are dental X-rays safe during pregnancy?

Dental X-rays are generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially with modern digital technology and protective lead aprons. However, we typically postpone non-urgent X-rays until after delivery as a precautionary measure. If X-rays are necessary for diagnosis or treatment, we'll take extra safety precautions.

Digital Dental X-Rays in San Francisco

Crystal-clear digital imaging for precise diagnostics with minimal radiation. See what the naked eye can't.

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Clarity in Diagnosis, Confidence in Care

At Madderra Dental Spa, we believe that a precise diagnosis is the foundation of effective, conservative dental care. Our state-of-the-art digital X-ray technology allows us to see a detailed, comprehensive picture of your oral health that isn't visible during a standard exam. Unlike traditional film X-rays, our digital imaging system provides instant, high-resolution pictures of your teeth, roots, and jawbone, all while exposing you to up to 90% less radiation.

This advanced technology is a cornerstone of our practice, located in the heart of the Castro District. It enables Dr. Madderra and Dr. Holmann to detect potential issues like hidden decay, bone loss, or impacted teeth in their earliest stages. Early detection is key to our conservative approach, as it allows for simpler, less invasive treatments, saving you time, discomfort, and expense in the long run. The clarity of these images also facilitates a co-diagnostic experience, where we can show you exactly what we see on a screen, empowering you to be an active participant in your own dental health journey.

From routine check-ups to complex treatment planning for procedures like dental implants or root canals, digital radiography is an indispensable tool. We invest in this technology because it aligns with our unwavering commitment to providing the highest standard of care in a safe, comfortable, and uniquely spa-like environment. It ensures every treatment plan is built on a foundation of complete and accurate information.

An Essential Tool for Every Patient

Digital X-rays are a fundamental part of modern dentistry, providing critical information for virtually every patient. They are especially vital for the following situations and individuals:

New Patients

For every new member of our practice family, a full set of X-rays provides a crucial baseline. This allows us to fully understand your dental history and track any changes with precision over the years.

Routine Check-Ups

As part of your regular preventative care, bitewing X-rays allow us to find cavities between teeth and monitor the health of existing fillings and crowns long before they become visible problems.

Patients with Symptoms

If you're experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, an X-ray is the definitive tool to diagnose the root cause, whether it's an infection, an abscess, or deep decay requiring a root canal.

Planning Major Procedures

For treatments like dental implants, extractions, or full mouth reconstruction, X-rays are essential for assessing jawbone density and mapping out the precise placement of restorations.

Monitoring Gum Disease

X-rays provide a clear view of the bone supporting your teeth, allowing us to accurately measure any bone loss caused by periodontal disease and tailor your treatment accordingly.

Orthodontic Evaluation

Before starting Invisalign or other orthodontic treatments, panoramic and cephalometric X-rays help us evaluate jaw relationships and predict tooth movement for optimal results.

The Madderra Approach: Precision and Prudence

Our philosophy on dental imaging is guided by Dr. Garret Madderra's 34+ years of clinical experience and a deep-seated commitment to conservative care. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, Dr. Madderra and Dr. Holmann use their expertise to determine precisely when and what type of imaging is necessary. This prudence ensures you only receive the radiation exposure you absolutely need, when you need it, adhering to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle.

When we do take an X-ray, we leverage our state-of-the-art technology to its fullest potential. Our digital sensors are among the most advanced available, capturing incredibly detailed images with minimal radiation. This isn't just about having the latest equipment; it's about how we use it. Dr. Madderra's extensive experience allows him to interpret these nuanced images with a master clinician's eye, identifying subtle signs of disease that might otherwise be missed. This combination of judicious use and expert interpretation defines the Madderra Approach—delivering the highest standard of diagnostic care with unwavering respect for your long-term well-being.

The Digital Imaging Process: Simple & Swift

Protective Preparation

Your comfort and safety are our first priority. We'll begin by comfortably placing a lead apron with a thyroid collar over you. This is a standard safety measure that shields your body from the minimal radiation exposure.

Gentle Sensor Placement

Our dental assistant will gently place a small, smooth digital sensor inside your mouth. We use various sizes to ensure a comfortable fit for every patient. You'll be asked to bite down gently to hold it in place for just a few seconds.

Instantaneous Image Capture

The X-ray machine is positioned alongside your cheek. The capture itself is instantaneous—lasting just a fraction of a second. You won't feel a thing as the image is taken.

Immediate On-Screen Co-Diagnosis

The high-resolution image immediately appears on a large chairside monitor. This allows you and your dentist to review the findings together in real-time. We can zoom in, highlight areas of concern, and explain exactly what we see, enhancing your understanding of your oral health.

Benefits of Our Digital X-Ray Technology

Superior Diagnostic Accuracy

High-resolution images can be magnified and have their contrast adjusted, allowing for the earliest possible detection of decay and disease.

Up to 90% Less Radiation

Our advanced digital sensors are far more sensitive than traditional film, drastically reducing your exposure to radiation for enhanced safety.

Immediate, Clear Results

Images are available instantly on a large screen, eliminating waiting time and allowing for immediate diagnosis and collaborative treatment planning.

Empowering Patient Co-Diagnosis

Viewing your own X-rays on a large screen helps you understand your oral health and become an active, informed participant in your treatment decisions.

Eco-Friendly & Efficient

By eliminating the need for chemical developers and physical film, digital X-rays are a greener, more efficient choice for our planet and our practice.

Easy Sharing & Archiving

Digital files can be easily and securely stored in your permanent record and instantly transmitted to specialists or insurance companies as needed.

Patient Experiences

"I was terrified of getting a root canal, but Dr. Madderra made it completely painless. The entire staff was supportive and professional. Highly recommend!"

Christopher B.

Root Canal Therapy

June 2025

"I was in severe pain, and Dr. Madderra saw me immediately. The root canal was completely painless, and the relief was instant. Exceptional emergency care."

Dorothy M.

Root Canal Therapy

February 2024

"The gentle technique and modern technology made this root canal nothing like I feared. Dr. Madderra saved my tooth and my peace of mind."

George W.

Root Canal Therapy

January 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, they are extremely safe. Digital X-rays emit up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. The targeted, low-dose exposure is minimal and considered safe for routine diagnostic purposes. At Madderra Dental Spa, we adhere to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, only taking images when they are clinically necessary to ensure your utmost safety.

The frequency depends on your individual oral health, age, and risk for disease. New patients typically receive a full mouth series to establish a comprehensive baseline. For regular check-ups, bitewing X-rays are often recommended every 12-24 months to monitor for changes. Dr. Madderra or Dr. Holmann will recommend a personalized schedule tailored to your specific needs based on their conservative diagnostic philosophy.

Digital X-rays are a crucial diagnostic tool that can reveal a wide range of issues not visible during a visual exam. This includes cavities between teeth or under existing fillings, bone loss in the jaw due to gum disease, abscesses or cysts at the root of a tooth, impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth), and the general position and health of your teeth and roots.

Most patients find the process quick and entirely comfortable. We use small, rounded digital sensors with smooth edges, specifically designed to fit easily and gently into the mouth. The process for each image takes only a few seconds, and our highly trained team is exceptionally skilled at positioning the sensors to minimize any potential discomfort.

While you always have the right to refuse any treatment, we strongly advise against it for your own health. Refusing X-rays can prevent the dentist from making a complete and accurate diagnosis of your oral health. Many serious dental problems are hidden from view, and without X-rays, they can go undetected until they become severe, painful, and require more complex and costly treatment.

The primary benefits are significantly less radiation, instant image viewing (no waiting for film to develop), and superior image quality. We can zoom in, adjust contrast, and enhance the images on a large screen for a more accurate diagnosis. They are also much better for the environment as they eliminate the need for hazardous processing chemicals.

While routine X-rays are often postponed until after delivery as a precaution, dental X-rays may be necessary for emergencies or urgent diagnoses during pregnancy. With our digital technology, the radiation dose is extremely low, and we provide a lead apron to shield your abdomen and thyroid for maximum protection. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists agrees that the benefits of necessary dental care during pregnancy outweigh the minimal potential risks.

The cost of digital X-rays varies depending on the type and number of images needed for your specific diagnosis. Many dental insurance plans cover routine X-rays as part of preventative care. We will provide a clear, detailed breakdown of any costs associated with your treatment plan before we proceed. Our goal is to make exceptional care accessible and transparent.

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Ready for a Clearer Picture of Your Health?

Experience the comfort and precision of digital dentistry at our Castro District spa. Schedule your comprehensive exam today and see the difference for yourself.