useful in detecting and monitoring pathologies of the skeletal system
X-ray imaging is the use of a type of electromagnetic radiation that allows us the ability to see through a person’s skin and reveal images of the bones beneath it. There have been great advances in the technology that have led ever greater applications, from imaging micro biological cells and structural components of materials like cement to killing cancer cells.
Wilhelm Conrad Röentgen, a professor at Würzburg University in Germany, discovered X-Rays in 1895 when he noticed crystals near a high-voltage cathode-ray tube exhibiting a fluorescent glow, even when he shielded them with dark paper.
Experiments showed that this radiation could penetrate soft tissues but not bone, and would produce shadow images on photographic plates. He went on to take the first ever X-Ray, pictured on the left, of his wife’s hand! Ever since this discovery, X-Rays have become an invaluable tool, providing diagnosis as well as tracking recovery in patients.
SO how does your X-Ray get taken – “Radiation” is directed at the part of your anatomy that requires inspection and onto a film or other type of detector on the other side. A shadow-graph is created that shows the internal features mainly bone and high density materials like your jaw and teeth.
The Durban North Smile Center is able to provide Panorex, Cephalometric and Intra-Oral x-rays depending on the requirement of the practitioner or planned treatment.
If you would like more information or would like to make an appointment, get in touch.
The cephalometric x-ray (referred to as a Ceph) basically focuses on the side view of a patient head. It is used primarily for Orthodontic treatment planning and progress monitoring normally first taken during the orthodontic records appointment. They are also used by cranio facial specialists such as Maxillofacial Surgeons and Ent’s.
Having a Panorex x-ray is very similar to having a cephalometric x-ray taken. A panorex x-ray is able to ‘flatten out” the lower and upper jaw so all the teeth are visible in one image. Like a two dimensional image of you entire lower and upper jaws.
Regularly used for orthodontic assessments, diagnosis of wisdom teeth impaction, diagnosis of advanced periodontal disease, assessment of the jaw joint, as well as for detecting signs of oral cancer.
Intra Oral X-rays are the most commonly used in dental practices. They are able to take a snapshot of a localized area and provide imaging of the tooth, gums, roots and surrounding anatomy. A sensor goes inside the mouth behind the local area of interest and the tube like machine sits on the outside of the mouth. This type of X-ray is also used by Oral hygienists.
Audiology
We assess and treat hearing, balance, and related disorders with the expertise of professional audiologists, helping you reconnect with the world around you.
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Oral Hygiene
Our oral hygienists use an interdisciplinary approach to maintain your dental health through preventative care, professional cleaning, and patient education.
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Physiotherapy
Our physiotherapist helps restore movement and function through evidence-based physical therapy, supporting recovery, strength, and mobility.
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Cleft Care
We provide comprehensive cleft care for children and families, from early feeding support to surgical planning, speech therapy, and long-term care coordination.
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Orthodontics
Our orthodontic care focuses on correcting facial and dental irregularities through braces, aligners, and other treatments for both children and adults.
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Psychology
We offer compassionate, evidence-based psychological care to support mental health, emotional resilience, and personal growth across all stages of life.
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X-Ray Imaging
On-site diagnostic imaging enables quick, accurate insights using advanced X-ray technology to support dental and medical diagnoses.
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Dentistry
Our dentists are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions of the teeth, gums, and mouth, from routine check-ups to complex restorative care.
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Periodontics
Our periodontists specialise in gum disease prevention and treatment, as well as the placement of dental implants for long-term oral health.
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Speech Therapy
Our speech-language pathologists support patients with communication, language, and swallowing challenges, creating individualised care plans for every age.
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CHANGING LIVES. THE WENTWORTH FOUNDATION
Home to the Wentworth Foundation, creating Smiles for Africa by providing lifechanging care for children with facial and dental irregularities.
We are proud to be home to the Wentworth Foundation, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting indigent children with cleft lip/palate through comprehensive care and community outreach.
