Dental X-ray

At Dr. Salazar’s Scarborough clinic, we combine a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere with cutting-edge imaging technology. Our team uses advanced digital dental X-rays and radiography systems to catch problems early, supporting both preventive care and restorative treatment. Whether you’re a child or an adult, we strive to make every visit comfortable and reassuring. In our warm environment, even anxious patients feel at ease, and we never rush; we take the time to explain each step. From baby teeth to adult wisdom teeth, our Dental Radiology Scarborough expertise ensures we see everything we need to safeguard your smile. We also take special care with young patients, ‘child-sizing’ exposures, and using gentle techniques so that dental X-rays are safe and stress-free for kids.

Our friendly Scarborough dental team is experienced in making visits easy for both children and adults. We focus on gentle, personalized care to help every patient feel at ease.

Types of dental x X-ray imaging

Different X-ray techniques give us different views of your teeth and jaw. Here are the most common types we offer:

Bitewing X-Rays: These capture the top and bottom of your back teeth (molars and premolars) in one image. Bitewings are ideal for spotting cavities between teeth and early bone changes from gum disease. They are quick and comfortable: you simply bite on a small sensor while the X-ray is taken.
Periapical X-Rays: These show an entire tooth from the crown down through the root. Periapical films reveal the tooth root and surrounding bone. They are useful for diagnosing issues under the gum line, such as root infections, cysts, or impactions.
Occlusal X-Rays: These cover the full bite of an entire arch of teeth at once. Occlusal X-rays are often used with children to track developing teeth. They help us see extra teeth, jaw fractures, or palatal/arch problems in a single image.
Panoramic X-Rays: Our practice’s panoramic X-ray Scarborough system (pictured below) captures a wide, two-dimensional image of the entire mouth in one scan. This panoramic film shows all the teeth in both jaws, the jaw joints (TMJs), and nearby anatomy at once. By getting this big-picture view, we can spot hidden problems like impacted wisdom teeth, cysts, fractures, or bone anomalies that might be missed on smaller films. Panoramic imaging streamlines care: one shot replaces multiple smaller films.

Our digital panoramic X-ray scanner captures one wide image of all your teeth, jaws, and supporting structures at once. This full-mouth “snapshot” helps Dr. Salazar detect hidden issues (impacted wisdom teeth, jaw problems, etc.) early and plan treatment efficiently. By using Panoramic X-ray Scarborough technology, we minimize patient discomfort and save time while still getting a comprehensive diagnostic view of your oral health.

Advanced 3D (Cone-Beam) X-Rays: In some cases, we may recommend a 3D cone-beam CT scan. This cutting-edge X-ray produces a fully 3D image of the jaws and teeth. It’s especially useful for planning implants or complex surgeries. Our Scarborough office is equipped with modern 3D imaging as part of our dental radiology services.

Benefits of Dental X-Ray Imaging

X-rays are a critical diagnostic tool. They let us see inside your teeth and jaws, catching problems invisible to the eye. Early detection is a major benefit: X-rays can reveal cavities between teeth, abscesses, bone loss, tumors, and developmental issues long before you feel any pain. For example, a small cavity hidden between molars can be treated easily if found early; without X-rays, it might only show up later as a large, uncomfortable problem. Likewise, X-rays help us plan treatments precisely—we use them when placing implants, performing root canals, evaluating braces, and more. In short, comprehensive dental radiology at Scarborough Care means safer, more effective dentistry for you.

Modern digital X-ray systems make these benefits even better. Digital sensors produce high-resolution images instantly, so we can review them with you right away. This means faster diagnoses and shorter appointments. Even better, digital X-rays use very little radiation—up to 80–90% less than traditional film methods. Patients also appreciate that we can zoom and enhance images on screen, helping you understand your treatment needs. In our office, the friendly dentist and hygienists often show patients their own X-rays so everyone is on the same page.

Safety of Dental X-Rays

Your safety is our top priority. Modern dental X-rays emit only a tiny amount of radiation dental imaging accounts for less than 1% of the total exposure you typically get from all medical sources each year. We use digital sensors and precise beam collimation (focusing) to keep doses extremely low. For children, we follow the ADA’s “Image Gently” guidelines: we use the fastest sensors, set X-ray units to pediatric doses, and restrict exposure strictly to the area of interest. In short, every X-ray is justified and as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA).

For added peace of mind, our instruments and protocols meet all Ontario regulatory standards. We continually invest in technology and training so that your exposure stays minimal. For example, we no longer routinely use lead aprons or thyroid collars based on the latest ADA guidelines; instead, we focus on digital imaging and beam control to protect you. In our patient-friendly setting, you’ll hardly notice the X-ray. It’s quick, painless, and one of the safest parts of your visit.

Understanding the dental X-ray cost in Scarborough

The cost of X-rays varies with the type of film and the number of images needed. Routine bitewing films are relatively inexpensive—often just a few dozen dollars for a set of two films. A panoramic X-ray (full-mouth scan) is more involved and typically runs in the range of about $80–$100 based on Canadian fee guides. We always discuss fees with you beforehand so there are no surprises. Many patients have dental insurance or coverage that helps pay for X-rays—in fact, workplace and government plans often include routine X-rays as part of preventive care. For instance, if a bitewing X-ray costs $30 and you have 70% coverage, you’d only pay $9 out-of-pocket.

At our Scarborough clinic, we accept direct billing to most insurance plans. Just let our staff know your plan, and we can submit claims electronically for you. We also participate in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Above all, we aim to make advanced imaging affordable so you get the care you need without hesitation. Feel free to ask us about dental X-ray cost when you schedule—we’ll explain all your options clearly.

Ready to Schedule?

Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem; take charge of your oral health today! At Dr. Shirley Salazar Dentistry in Scarborough, we make getting X-rays easy and worry-free. Whether you need a quick bitewing, a full-mouth series, or a panoramic scan, our friendly team is here to help. We welcome patients of all ages, and we explain every step in plain language. We also provide clear information on dental X-ray costs upfront so you can plan accordingly.