Digital and Panoramic X-Rays in Katy, TX

At Discover Orthodontics in Katy, TX, we use advanced digital and panoramic x-ray technology to diagnose and plan orthodontic treatment with precision and confidence. These modern tools allow us to see more than just the surface of your teeth — they give us a clear view of your entire oral structure, including tooth roots, bone, jaw position, and developing teeth.

Whether you're starting braces, clear aligners, or evaluating a child’s growth, accurate imaging is the foundation of effective care.

Digital X-Rays capture high-resolution images of your teeth and bone structure with significantly less radiation than traditional film x-rays. They are fast, safe, and can be viewed instantly on a monitor during your appointment.

Panoramic X-Rays take a wide-angle image of your entire mouth in a single scan. This includes:

• All teeth (erupted and unerupted)
  
• Upper and lower jaws
  
• Temporomandibular joints (TMJ)
  
• Sinuses
  
• Jawbone density and alignment
  

These x-rays are especially useful for identifying:

• Impacted or missing teeth
  
• Jaw irregularities
  
• Growth patterns in children
  
• Pre-treatment planning for braces or aligners

Proper imaging plays a vital role in designing safe, effective orthodontic treatment plans. At our Katy office, we use digital and panoramic x-rays to:

• Assess bone and tooth alignment
  
• Monitor tooth development in children and teens
  
• Detect potential complications early
  
• Evaluate the need for orthodontic appliances
  
• Guide the placement of braces or clear aligners

Our technology allows us to create 3D treatment plans with pinpoint accuracy — improving results and reducing surprises during treatment.

Many patients are surprised by how quick and easy digital imaging is at our practice. Benefits include:

• Low Radiation: Up to 80–90% less exposure than traditional x-rays
  
• Instant Results: Images appear immediately on-screen
  
• No Film or Waiting: No chemical processing required
  
• Environmentally Friendly: Digital files reduce waste and simplify record-keeping
  
• Non-Invasive & Painless: Most scans take just seconds to complete

For children and adults alike, this makes the diagnostic process smoother, faster, and more comfortable.

We typically take digital or panoramic x-rays during your:

• First visit: To establish a baseline and diagnose issues
  
• Growth monitoring visits: Especially for children and teens
  
• Pre-treatment planning: For braces or aligners
  
• Progress checks: To confirm movement and alignment during treatment

Want to know what to expect at your first appointment? Visit our First Visit Guide.

Trusted by Families in Katy and Beyond

As a locally trusted orthodontic provider, Discover Orthodontics proudly serves families from Katy, Cinco Ranch, Fulshear, and Cane Island. Our investment in advanced imaging technology reflects our commitment to providing:

• Faster, more accurate diagnostics
  
• Safer imaging for all ages
  
• Better outcomes for every smile

Led by Dr. Patricia Tran and Dr. Matthew Ng, our team is known for combining clinical excellence with patient-first care. Whether you’re seeking treatment for yourself or your child, we ensure your experience is efficient and stress-free.

FAQs About Digital and Panoramic X-Rays

Q: Are digital x-rays safe?
A: Yes. Digital x-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film-based x-rays — up to 80–90% less. They are safe for both children and adults and are an essential part of quality orthodontic care.

Q: How often will I need x-rays during orthodontic treatment?
A: Typically, we take x-rays at your initial consultation and during key stages of treatment. Frequency may vary depending on age, treatment type, and specific concerns.

Q: Is there any preparation needed for panoramic x-rays?
A: No special preparation is required. The process is quick and painless. You’ll be asked to remove metal objects like earrings or glasses before the scan to avoid image distortion.

Q: Can my child get digital x-rays?
A: Yes. Digital x-rays are safe for children and essential in monitoring growth, assessing tooth development, and planning treatment. They help us make informed decisions early and avoid complications later.

Q: Will insurance cover orthodontic x-rays?
A: Many dental insurance plans include coverage for diagnostic imaging as part of orthodontic treatment. For more information, visit our Financing & Insurance Information page or call our office.