Why Should You Get Regular Dental X-Rays?

X-rays offer a valuable diagnostic tool to identify disease or damage to your teeth. Your mouth is growing and changing continually, and a visual inspection alone cannot tell us everything we need to know.

How Are X-Rays Beneficial?

There are many areas such as under the gums or inside the teeth that we can’t see during your comprehensive examination. X-rays help us find cavities between and on the teeth, and to check on previous endodontic treatments. They also help us identify the cause of oral swelling and evaluate injuries to the teeth after trauma. Dental x-rays enable us to determine the impact of unerupted teeth, or if they are missing. They provide us with invaluable diagnostic information allowing us to see what is not apparent to the eyes alone.

Types of X-Rays

There are many different types of x-rays we use depending on your needs. Bitewing x-rays help us look at the crowns of the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth, and can pinpoint cavities between the teeth that we cannot see otherwise. They can also help us monitor previous fillings for wear.

Periapical x-rays zoom in on one or two teeth and help us identify cavities or problems with a tooth’s root or surrounding jaw. Panoramic x-rays show your whole mouth and can be used to monitor tooth development or identify the need for orthodontic treatments. There are other types of x-rays available for use depending on your needs and conditions.

Are X-Rays Safe?

Today’s dental x-ray equipment is safer than ever before. The amount of radiation you are exposed to during a dental x-ray is minimal. Additionally, we can focus the beam on a specific area to reduce radiation exposure. We also use protective equipment such as lead body aprons and shields to keep you safe.

Keep in mind that people at a lower risk for cavities may require x-rays less frequently. You can potentially reduce the number of x-rays by promoting good oral health at home.

Schedule Your Comprehensive Examination Today

At Bessey Creek Dental Care, we provide a comprehensive dental treatment. To learn more or to schedule a visit, contact our office today. We look forward to caring for all aspects of your dental health!