Digital X-rays—also known as digital radiographs—are the modern standard for dental imaging. Instead of traditional film, digital X-rays use an electronic sensor to capture and store images directly on a computer, where they can be viewed, enlarged, and enhanced instantly. At Philip K. Clark, DMD, we use this technology to catch problems early and keep your treatment plan accurate—for patients throughout Fleming Island and Clay County.
Digital X-rays work much like traditional film X-rays, but instead of film, a small electronic sensor captures the image and sends it straight to a computer screen. That has several real advantages:
Far less radiation: digital X-rays reduce exposure by 80–90% compared to already-low traditional dental X-ray levels
Instant results: no waiting for film to develop; a digital image takes seconds instead of minutes
Sharper, adjustable images: we can enlarge, brighten, or adjust contrast on screen to see problems more clearly
Easy to share: if you're referred to a specialist, we can transmit your digital images electronically, often eliminating the need to retake X-rays elsewhere
Better for the environment: no film processing means no chemical waste
A visual exam alone can't catch everything. X-rays give your dentist and hygienist a look at what's happening beneath the surface—information that's essential for an accurate, complete treatment plan. Left undetected, small problems can turn into bigger, more expensive ones.
Abscesses or cysts
Bone loss
Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
Decay between the teeth.
Developmental abnormalities.
Poor tooth and root positions.
Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
A full mouth series typically includes 18 different views of your teeth and jawbone, using two standard image types:
Periapical views—used to inspect root tips for decay, disease, or damage
Bitewing views—used to closely examine and measure the upper and lower jawbone, and to check how your top and bottom teeth meet
After each image is captured, it's transferred wirelessly to a computer or scanned from the sensor—ready to view in seconds, with on-screen contrast and brightness adjustments for the clearest possible picture.
Yes. We're all exposed to some natural background radiation daily, and digital X-rays add only a small, well-studied amount on top of that—significantly less than traditional film X-rays. We also take extra precautions to keep your exposure as low as possible, including only taking the X-rays that are clinically necessary and using lead apron shields during every exposure.
This depends on your individual dental health, and your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your history, exam findings, age, and risk factors. As a general guide:
New patients typically receive a full mouth series, which usually remains useful for 3–5 years.
Returning patients typically have bitewing X-rays taken at recall visits, once or twice a year, to catch new problems early.
University of Florida–trained: Dr. Clark is a 1989 graduate of the UF College of Dentistry, with additional academic background in physical therapy and biology.
Deep roots in Fleming Island: Decades of experience serving Fleming Island, Orange Park, Green Cove Springs, and the surrounding Clay County community.
Modern technology, personal care: Advanced digital imaging paired with one-on-one attention from the same trusted team every visit.
Yes—digital X-rays produce very low radiation, and we take extra precautions, such as lead aprons for every patient, including children, to keep exposure as minimal as possible.
Just seconds per image, compared to several minutes for traditional film—meaning less time in the chair overall.
Most dental insurance plans cover routine X-rays as part of preventive care. We're happy to verify your specific coverage before your visit.
No, most returning patients only need bitewing X-rays once or twice a year at recall visits. A full-mouth series is typically needed only for new patients or every few years.
Yes—since our X-rays are digital, we can transmit them electronically to a specialist, which often means you won't need to have X-rays retaken elsewhere.
Regular dental X-rays are one of the simplest ways to catch problems early—often before you'd notice anything yourself. Call now or schedule an appointment online to keep your smile on track.