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Start with a clinical question
Your concerns, dental history and examination guide the records needed. Not every visit needs new imaging.
DIGITAL DIAGNOSTICS
A clearer picture of your dental needs.
Examination and useful diagnostic records help turn a concern into an informed treatment discussion.
UNDERSTAND YOUR CARE · INTERACTIVE EXPLANATION
What can different dental records tell us?
A surface model and an X-ray answer different questions. Separate the information to see why your examination comes first.
Tooth and records · different kinds of informationStart with a clinical question
Read the explanation below. The interactive model loads when you choose.
Drag to rotate. Pinch to zoom. Keyboard: arrow keys rotate and tilt, + / − zoom, Home resets the view.
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Understand the visible surfaces
A digital impression records surface shape. The mesh represents that outer surface; it does not reveal nerves, roots inside bone or a hidden infection.
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Look beyond the surface when indicated
Dental X-rays can help assess structures that cannot be seen directly. The cutaway here explains that difference; it is not an X-ray interpretation.
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Bring the information together
Records support the dentist’s examination and explanation. Separate the model to compare surface information with internal anatomy, then discuss what the findings mean for your options.
LOOK AT A PART
Visible tooth
A simplified reference tooth.
A QUESTION TO BRING
“What question will this record answer, and do my existing records help?”
Discuss your concernsConnect it to your care.
Read how assessment, imaging when indicated and treatment decisions fit together.
How records relate to endodontic careThese are teaching shapes, not a scan or X-ray. A surface scan does not show internal anatomy. No particular scanner or imaging service is implied; ask what is appropriate and available for your assessment.
Patient education sources: ADA · Tooth anatomy · ADA · Dental X-rays · ADA · Digital dentistry technologies
DURING YOUR VISIT
See what the findings mean.
Ask what a record helps explain and how it affects your options. Your questions belong in the conversation.
Assessment comes first
The dentist examines your teeth and discusses symptoms, history and goals. Digital tools support this conversation; they do not replace it.
Records when they are useful
Imaging and other digital records may be recommended when they help answer a clinical question or plan treatment. Ask why a record is needed.
Know the next step
Ask what the findings mean, whether further assessment is required and how they affect your options. Your plan is individual to your circumstances.
General patient education. An examination is needed for individual advice.
YOUR NEXT STEP CAN BE A CONVERSATION
Bring your questions.
We’ll take it from there.
Tell us what you would like to understand.
We’ll help you plan a visit to the clinic.