Digital X-rays on Maui

Digital x-rays give us the diagnostic detail we need to plan your treatment, with very low radiation and instant results. They are part of how Maui Braces keeps care safe and precise at our Kahului, Makawao, and Lahaina offices. Call or text (808) 874-9229 for a free consultation.

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What Are Digital X-rays?

Digital x-rays use electronic sensors instead of film to capture images of your teeth, roots, and jaws. The image appears on screen instantly, with notably less radiation than older film x-rays, and it can be enhanced, measured, and compared over time.

The Orthodontic Imaging We Use

Orthodontics relies on a few specific kinds of digital imaging, and we have them all in-house:

Digital panoramic. One wide image of all your teeth, the jaws, and the structures around them. It is ideal for seeing developing and unerupted teeth, impacted canines, and the overall layout.

Cephalometric. A side-profile x-ray used specifically in orthodontics. It lets us measure how the jaws, teeth, and face relate to one another and how a child is growing. This is the orthodontic record a general dentist usually does not take.

Cone-beam CT (CBCT). A low-dose 3D x-ray we use when a case needs more detail, such as pinpointing an impacted tooth, assessing roots and bone, or planning a complex case.

Orthodontic Records vs Your Dentist's X-rays

Our orthodontic x-rays are not the same as the full-mouth x-rays your general or pediatric dentist takes. The cephalometric especially is an orthodontic-specific image: we are looking at the big-picture structure, how the jaws, teeth, and face fit together and how they are growing, rather than checking individual teeth for cavities the way your dentist does. The two sets of records complement each other.

To keep things simple and safe, we share all of our radiographs with your general or pediatric dentist, so no one takes duplicate x-rays. That means less radiation for you and your child, and better-coordinated care across your whole dental team.

Why They Matter

Some of the most important parts of orthodontic planning are below the surface: where the roots sit, whether a tooth is impacted, and how the jaws are growing. Digital x-rays let us see all of that clearly and safely, which is especially reassuring for parents of young patients. Instant images also mean we can answer your questions the same visit.

How We Use Them

We use digital imaging to diagnose impacted teeth like canines, check root positions and angulation, monitor jaw growth in children, and build an accurate treatment plan. It is a small step that makes a big difference in getting your treatment right from the start.

Impacted canines Braces on Maui Digital 3D scanning

Digital X-rays: FAQs

Are digital x-rays safe?

Yes. They use significantly less radiation than older film x-rays, and we only take the images needed to plan and monitor your care.

How much radiation is involved?

Very little. Digital sensors are highly efficient, so the dose is low, which is reassuring for children and adults alike.

How often are x-rays needed?

Only as needed, typically at the start to plan, and occasionally during treatment to check progress.

Are x-rays necessary for braces or aligners?

Usually yes. Seeing the roots and jaws is essential to planning safe, predictable tooth movement.

What kinds of x-rays does an orthodontist take?

Most commonly a panoramic for the overall picture and a cephalometric to measure jaw and facial growth, plus a cone-beam CT (CBCT) when a case needs 3D detail. These are different from your dentist's cavity-checking x-rays.

Will I need duplicate x-rays if my dentist already took some?

No. We share our radiographs with your general or pediatric dentist, and the other way around, so we avoid duplicates and keep your radiation exposure as low as possible.

What Patients Say About Maui Braces

★★★★★ 5.0 — 450+ Google Reviews

“Such an amazing Doctor and all of his staff! My daughter loved the kindness and comfort she experienced during her treatment. Highly recommended!” — Christly Garcia

“My son received orthodontic treatment from the Maui Braces team over the course of about 2.5 years, and we couldn't have asked for a better experience. From day one to the final visit, the staff made us feel welcome and went above and beyond to be helpful and caring.” — Debra Lynn Ho