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 can 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.
With DIGITAL x-rays, the
small amount of radiation is
further reduced up to 90%.
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 on the
review of your medical and
dental history, dental exam,
signs and symptoms, age
consideration, and risk for
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) and periapical x-rays
(to show roots) are taken at
recall (check-up) visits and are
recommended once or twice a year
to detect new dental problems.
