Digital Dental X-Rays in Encinitas – See What Your Smile Is Hiding
At Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry, we believe in catching dental problems early—before they become bigger, more costly issues. That’s why we use safe, advanced dental X-rays in Encinitas as a key part of your preventative care. With both 2D and 3D digital imaging, we get a clearer picture of your oral health and provide the most accurate diagnosis possible.
Whether you’re coming in for a routine exam or preparing for treatment, X-rays help us understand what’s going on beneath the surface—so we can treat you with confidence, precision, and care.
What Are Digital Dental X-Rays?
Even with the most thorough visual exam, many dental issues can remain hidden. Dental X-rays allow us to:
- Detect decay between teeth
- Identify bone loss from gum disease
- Assess infection or abscesses
- Monitor tooth and root positioning
- Evaluate wisdom teeth or other impacted teeth
- Plan restorative or surgical procedures
- Track oral development in children and teens
By identifying these concerns early, we can help you avoid pain, more extensive procedures, and unexpected costs down the line.
Are Digital Dental X-Rays Safe?
Yes—especially when they’re digital. At Gregory Skeens D.D.S., we use low-radiation digital X-ray technology that reduces exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional film-based X-rays.
Your safety is our top priority. We follow strict safety protocols, including the use of protective lead aprons and limiting X-ray frequency to what is clinically necessary. For most healthy patients, dental X-rays are only needed once a year—though this can vary depending on your dental history and risk level.
We also take extra precautions for children and pregnant patients, ensuring all imaging is appropriate and safe.
2D vs. 3D Dental Imaging – What’s the Difference?
Both 2D and 3D imaging play important roles in modern dentistry:
2D Digital X-Rays
These are the standard for most preventative and routine care. They help us check for cavities, evaluate root health, and monitor overall oral development. They’re quick, painless, and used during most bi-annual visits.
3D Cone Beam CT (CBCT)
Our 3D dental X-rays in Encinitas offer more detailed images that allow us to examine bone density, nerve pathways, and sinus positioning. We often use this technology for:
- Dental implant planning
- Complex extractions (like wisdom teeth)
- Root canal evaluations
- TMJ assessment
- Sleep apnea screening
This advanced imaging gives us a full understanding of your oral anatomy—helping us deliver safer and more predictable treatment outcomes.
When Do You Need Digital Dental X-Rays?
You may need X-rays:
- During your first visit to establish a baseline
- Once a year as part of routine preventative care
- Before specific treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals
- To monitor existing conditions like gum disease or infection
- To assess your growth and development (in children and teens)
Rest assured, we’ll always explain the reason for any X-ray and answer any questions you have before we proceed.
Low-Dose Digital X-Rays for Kids and Teens
Dental X-rays are especially important during childhood and adolescence, when teeth and jaws are still developing. We use pediatric X-rays to:
- Monitor incoming permanent teeth
- Detect cavities in hard-to-see areas
- Track jaw growth and alignment
- Plan orthodontic referrals when needed
Our team uses special pediatric settings to ensure children receive the lowest radiation dose necessary while still getting clear, useful images.
Local, Personalized Care in Encinitas
As your trusted Encinitas family dentist, Dr. Gregory Skeens and our team are committed to combining advanced dental technology with a friendly, neighborly approach. Patients from Encinitas, Cardiff, Leucadia, and beyond appreciate our balance of modern tools and compassionate care.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Quick, comfortable imaging appointments
- A thorough explanation of your results
- Personalized treatment planning using accurate data
- Honest recommendations, never upselling or pressure
- A dental team that truly listens to your concerns
We’re here to help you understand what’s going on with your oral health—and to make sure nothing goes unnoticed.
Schedule Your Next Dental X-Ray Appointment
Whether you’re due for your annual check-up or need an X-ray before a specific treatment, we’re ready to provide fast, precise, and safe imaging in a calm, welcoming environment.
Call Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry today at 760-944-9288 to schedule your next appointment. Let us give you a clear picture of your oral health—so you can make informed decisions and keep your smile strong for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions – Dental X-Rays
Are dental X-rays really necessary?
How often should I get dental X-rays?
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
What’s the difference between 2D and 3D dental X-rays?
Will my insurance cover dental X-rays?
Meet Your Encinitas Family Dentist
Gregory Skeens, D.D.S. – Dr. Skeens graduated from Loma Linda University dental school in 2001 on an academic Navy scholarship. He was the first in his class to finish all clinical requirements 6 months early and became a faculty member at the dental school, where he served for 4 years as a Navy dentist and a naval officer. After completing an advanced education in general dentistry (AEGD) residency, he deployed on the USS Peleliu in 2003, caring for 2500 marines, as well as providing humanitarian dental care to the Indigenous people of Iraq and Africa.
Dr. Skeens belongs to the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), and San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS). He also attends Patriot and IADI Study Clubs.
Our Encinitas Dental Services
Tooth Extractions
Safely remove broken, cracked, or decayed teeth, including wisdom tooth removal.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns
Designed specifically for your smile and custom made in one visit.
Veneers
Conceal cosmetic flaws, improve the appearance of your smile, and protect your tooth's surface.
Dental Bonding
Repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth or close gaps between teeth.
Dental Implants
The gold standard for replacing missing teeth that lasts for decades and restores your ability to chew food.
In-House Membership
Annual dental exams, bitewing x-rays, and discounts on dental services.
Visit Gregory Skeens D.D.S.
519 Encinitas Blvd (# 108)
Encinitas, CA 92024
We are located in the North Coast Business Park off Encinitas Blvd.
Patient Video Testimonials and 5-Star Google Reviews
Exceptional Patient-Focused Dental Care
During your visit, you’ll get to know Dr. Skeens—he is down-to-earth and known for his professionalism and sense of humor. As an innovative dentist in Encinitas, he always seeks continuing education courses to expand his professional knowledge and offers the latest dental advancements. He and his team make you feel right at home and offer exceptional patient-focused dental care in a comfortable and modern setting. We’ll look at your overall oral health and suggest essential treatments.
At Gregory Skeens D.D.S. – Encinitas Family Dentistry, relationships matter. Supporting growing families and strengthening the oral health of patients at every stage of life provides the ultimate reward to our team. We understand dental anxiety and pride ourselves on compassion and kindness. Our state-of-the-art technology allows us to serve everyone with first-class dental treatments for a legacy of Encinitas smiles
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Administrative
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Insurance / Financing / In-House Membership
Insurance
Insurance
We are in-network/contracted with the Delta Dental Premier Plan. We accept all PPO plans under ALL insurance umbrellas; however, we are considered out-of-network. As a courtesy, we will submit all claims to your insurance company and collect your estimated amount as treatment is rendered.
Financing
Financing
We’ll discuss the cost and payment options with you before we begin, and the choice for treatment is always yours. We accept major credit cards and CareCredit for extended payment options.
In-house Membership
In-house Membership
Our in-house membership program offers yearly savings and 20% off most dental services when you prepay for your hygiene visits, exams, and x-rays
Our guiding principles ensure your comprehensive dental treatments include the highest standards of care by dental professionals with ongoing training and expertise. We maintain strict infection control guidelines to protect you for uncompromising safety, patient education, and prevention. You can expect thorough dental exams that factor in your medical history, current illnesses, and current medications. The overall health of your teeth and gums is foundational to your general health. At Encinitas Family Dentistry, you can rest easy in our dental chairs, benefiting from a highly trained, highly motivated team of skilled professionals
✓ The Highest Standards of Care
✓ Uncompromising Safety
✓ Training and Expertise
✓ Education and Prevention
