X-RAYS
Dental x-rays are essential preventative diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Our 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
Decay between the teeth
Developmental abnormalities
Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
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!
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 3 to 5 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.
Our dentists still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation. These precautions include only taking those x-rays that are necessary and using lead apron shields to protect the body.