Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential, preventative,
diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not
visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental
hygienists use this information to safely and accurately
detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate
treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go
undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
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.
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage
may save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our
environment. The amount of radiation exposure from a full
mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person
receives in a single day from natural sources.
Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are
considered safe. Dentists take necessary precautions to
limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental
x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shields
to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts
down the exposure time of each x-ray.
How often should dental x-rays be
taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s
individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend
necessary x-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental
exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.
A full mouth series of dental x-rays is
recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years.
Bite-wing
x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits
and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
