See What's Hidden with Digital X-Rays
Dental X-rays are one of the most valuable diagnostic tools in modern dentistry. At Treasure Valley Family Dentistry in Meridian, Idaho, we use state-of-the-art digital X-ray technology to detect problems that are invisible during a visual examination alone — including hidden cavities, bone loss, infections, and impacted teeth.
Our digital X-ray system captures high-resolution images in seconds and displays them instantly on a chairside monitor. This means Dr. Yeakley can review your X-rays with you in real-time, pointing out areas of concern and explaining findings in a way that's easy to understand. No waiting for film to develop, no chemical processing — just fast, accurate, and environmentally friendly imaging.
Whether you need routine bitewing X-rays to check for cavities or a panoramic image for comprehensive treatment planning, our Meridian office is equipped with the latest technology to serve patients of all ages. We proudly provide digital dental X-rays to families throughout the Treasure Valley, including Boise, Eagle, Star, Kuna, and Nampa.
Digital vs. Traditional X-Rays
See why digital X-rays are the gold standard in modern dental imaging.
Digital X-Rays
Traditional Film X-Rays
Types of Dental X-Rays We Offer
Bitewing X-Rays
The most common type, bitewings capture the upper and lower back teeth in a single image. They're ideal for detecting cavities between teeth and monitoring bone levels.
Periapical X-Rays
These show the entire tooth from crown to root tip, including the surrounding bone. They're used to diagnose infections, abscesses, and root abnormalities.
Panoramic X-Rays
A panoramic X-ray captures a complete view of your entire mouth, jaw joints, sinuses, and nasal area in one image — essential for comprehensive treatment planning.
At Treasure Valley Family Dentistry, we follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), meaning we only take X-rays when clinically necessary and always use the lowest radiation settings possible. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities — whether you're visiting us from Meridian, Boise, Eagle, or anywhere else in the Treasure Valley.
Common Questions
Dental X-Ray FAQs
Yes. Digital dental X-rays emit extremely low levels of radiation, up to 90% less than traditional film X-rays. The exposure from a set of dental X-rays is comparable to the amount of natural background radiation you receive in a single day. They are safe for patients of all ages.
The frequency depends on your individual oral health needs. Most patients benefit from bitewing X-rays once a year and a full set of X-rays every 3 to 5 years. Patients with active decay, gum disease, or other concerns may need X-rays more frequently. Dr. Yeakley will recommend a schedule based on your specific situation.
We offer bitewing X-rays (to detect cavities between teeth), periapical X-rays (to view entire tooth roots and surrounding bone), panoramic X-rays (a full view of the entire mouth, jaw, and sinuses), and digital impressions as needed for treatment planning.
While dental X-rays are very low-radiation, we typically postpone non-urgent X-rays during pregnancy as a precaution. However, if there's a dental emergency, X-rays can be taken safely with proper lead shielding. Always let us know if you're pregnant or think you might be.
Not at all. Digital X-rays are completely painless. You'll bite down on a small sensor for a few seconds while the image is captured. The process is quick, comfortable, and takes just minutes to complete.
Many dental problems develop without symptoms. X-rays reveal hidden cavities between teeth, bone loss from gum disease, infections at the root tips, impacted teeth, and cysts or tumors, all conditions that may not cause pain until they've advanced significantly.
Digital X-rays use an electronic sensor instead of film, producing images instantly on a computer screen. They require up to 90% less radiation, produce sharper images that can be enhanced digitally, are stored electronically (no chemicals needed), and allow us to share images with you in real-time.
Most dental insurance plans cover diagnostic X-rays as a preventive benefit. Bitewing X-rays are typically covered annually, and full-mouth X-rays are covered every 3 to 5 years. Our team will verify your coverage before your appointment.
Yes, and they're an important tool for monitoring dental development. Children's X-rays help us track erupting teeth, identify orthodontic concerns early, and detect cavities in primary teeth. We use the lowest possible radiation settings for pediatric patients.
Digital X-rays are incredibly fast. A full set of bitewing X-rays takes about 5 minutes. A panoramic X-ray takes less than 30 seconds. Images appear on screen instantly, allowing Dr. Yeakley to review them with you immediately.
Your Smile Awaits
Ready to Experience Comfortable Dentistry?
Schedule your visit today and discover why families across the Treasure Valley trust us with their smiles.
