Some dental concerns are easy to see. Others start between teeth, under the gums, around tooth roots, or in the soft tissues of the mouth. At Coalville Dental, digital dental X-rays and oral cancer screenings help Dr. Thompson look more carefully, explain findings clearly, and recommend treatment only when it is needed.
Digital Dental X-rays
Traditional film X-rays served dentistry well for decades, but digital imaging gives us a faster, clearer view with lower radiation exposure than film in many cases. Digital sensors capture images within seconds and display them on a monitor, where Dr. Thompson can enlarge details and walk you through what he sees in plain language.
We use digital X-rays to detect:
- Cavities between teeth that a visual exam may miss
- Bone loss from gum disease
- Infections at the root of a tooth
- Impacted teeth, which are teeth blocked from coming in normally
- Cracks, fractures, or failing dental work hidden beneath existing fillings or crowns
We follow conservative imaging schedules based on your individual risk, symptoms, and dental history. If you are pregnant or have concerns about radiation, please let us know. We will talk through the reason for any recommended X-ray, the timing, and whether it can safely wait.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a simple but important part of preventive dental care. When concerning changes are found early, patients generally have more treatment options and a better chance of successful care. Dr. Thompson checks the soft tissues of the mouth as part of routine exams, with extra attention for patients at higher risk, including people who use tobacco, drink alcohol heavily, are over 55, have a history of oral HPV (human papillomavirus), or have had significant sun exposure to the lips.
During a screening, we examine:
- Lips, tongue, and the floor of the mouth
- Inner cheeks and the soft palate
- The back of the throat (as far as visible)
- Lymph nodes in the neck and jaw area, which can sometimes swell when the body is responding to infection or other concerns
We look for persistent sores, white or red patches, lumps, thickened areas, or tissue that looks or feels different from the surrounding area. Most changes in the mouth are not cancer, but anything suspicious should be monitored, rechecked, or referred for further evaluation.
What to Expect at Your Visit
- A brief health update. We’ll ask about new medications, tobacco or nicotine use, symptoms, and changes since your last visit.
- Digital X-rays, when indicated. Bitewing X-rays take just a few minutes. A full-mouth series takes a bit longer but is only needed periodically.
- A soft-tissue exam. Dr. Thompson checks your mouth, tongue, and throat as part of your comprehensive exam.
- Same-visit image review. Digital images appear on screen right away, with no waiting for film to develop. Dr. Thompson reviews them with you during your visit.
- A clear plan. If anything needs attention, we’ll explain what we found, what it means, and the next reasonable step.
Modern Screening for Local Dental Care
Coalville and Summit County families deserve dental care that is careful, transparent, and easy to understand. Digital dental X-rays and oral cancer screenings help us diagnose more precisely, monitor changes over time, and have better conversations about your options.
If it has been a while since your last dental exam, or if you have noticed a sore, lump, or area in your mouth that is not healing, call Coalville Dental to schedule a visit with Dr. Thompson.
Frequently asked questions
Are digital dental X-rays safe?
Digital dental X-rays use ionizing radiation, but the exposure is low and typically much lower than traditional film X-rays. We follow conservative imaging guidelines and only recommend X-rays when they provide meaningful clinical information.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
It depends on your oral health, age, symptoms, and risk for cavities or gum disease. Many adults need bitewing X-rays about once a year and a more complete set periodically, while patients with active concerns may need imaging more often.
What does an oral cancer screening involve?
Dr. Thompson visually checks your lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and visible throat area, and may gently feel the neck and jaw for unusual lumps or tenderness. The screening is quick, painless, and part of a thorough dental exam.
Can I refuse dental X-rays?
Yes. We'll explain why we recommend imaging, answer your questions, and respect your decision. X-rays can reveal decay, bone loss, infections, and other concerns that may not be visible during a visual exam, so declining them can limit what we are able to diagnose.