X-Rays May Reveal:
- Abscesses or cysts
- Bone loss
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
- Decay between teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
Detecting and treating these problems early will save you time, money and unnecessary comfort. It may even save your teeth!
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
In short, yes. Dental x-rays are safe. Depending on the type of x-ray you receive, whether it’s digital or traditional, there is a very small amount of radiation that you are exposed to, which is natural and part of our daily environment. Digital x-rays, however, reduce the amount of radiation you are exposed to during an x-ray by 80-90% over traditional x-rays. They are also faster and more comfortable, which reduces anxiety and your time at the dental office. Since they are digital, there is also no need to wait for the x-ray film to develop, thus eliminating the disposal of harmful chemicals into our environment.
How Often Should 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 review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and your risk of disease.
A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients, and it is usually good for 3-5 years. Wite-wing x-rays, which are x-rays of the top and bottom teeth biting together, are taken at check-up visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
