How Dental X-Rays Protect Your Oral Health
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.
What Dental X-Rays Can Detect
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.
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) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What are dental X-Rays and why are they important?
Dental X-rays (radiographs) are diagnostic images that allow your dentist to see areas not visible during a regular exam, such as tooth roots, bone structure, and areas between teeth. They help detect decay, infections, bone loss, and other hidden issues early so treatment can be planned accurately.
Q.
Are dental X-Rays safe?
Yes. Dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation, especially with modern digital technology, and are considered safe for adults and children when taken only as needed.
Q.
How often should I get dental X-Rays?
The frequency of X-rays depends on your oral health, age, risk for decay or gum disease, and dental history. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate schedule based on your individual needs.
Q.
Do dental X-Rays hurt?
No — getting X-rays is quick and painless. Most patients only feel a small sensor or film inside the mouth, with no discomfort from the imaging itself.
Q.
Can dental X-Rays detect early problems?
Absolutely. X-rays can reveal decay between teeth, infections, cysts, bone loss, impacted teeth, and other issues before they cause pain or become visible during a routine exam.
Q.
Can I get X-Rays if I’m pregnant?
Tell your dentist if you’re pregnant. While dental X-rays are generally considered safe with proper shielding, they may be postponed until after pregnancy unless there’s a pressing dental need.