Dental x-rays are an important part of your overall dental health. They allow your dentist to see inside your teeth and jawbone, which can’t be seen with a visual exam alone. This information can help your dentist diagnose and treat dental problems early, before they become more serious.
There are many reasons why you might need dental x-rays. Some of the most common reasons include:
- To detect cavities. Cavities are the most common type of dental decay. They can start out as small, invisible spots on your teeth, but they can quickly grow larger and more serious if they’re not treated. Dental x-rays can help your dentist see cavities that are too small to be seen with a visual exam.
- To assess the health of your gums. Gum disease is a serious condition that can damage your teeth and jawbone. Dental x-rays can help your dentist see how much bone loss you have, which can be a sign of gum disease.
- To find hidden dental problems. Sometimes, dental problems can be hidden from view. For example, wisdom teeth can sometimes become impacted, which means they’re stuck below the gum line and can’t come in normally. Dental x-rays can help your dentist see if you have any hidden dental problems.
- To plan dental treatment. Before your dentist can start any dental treatment, they need to have a complete understanding of your dental health. Dental x-rays can help your dentist plan your treatment by showing them the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone.
Dental x-rays are a safe and effective way to assess your dental health. The amount of radiation exposure from dental x-rays is very low, and the benefits of getting x-rays far outweigh the risks.
If you haven’t had dental x-rays in a while, talk to your dentist about scheduling an appointment. Dental x-rays are an important part of maintaining good oral health, and they can help your dentist keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.
Here are some additional benefits of getting dental x-rays:
- They can help your dentist diagnose and treat oral cancer early.
- They can help your dentist plan orthodontic treatment.
- They can help your dentist monitor the growth and development of your teeth and jawbone.
- They can help your dentist diagnose and treat other dental problems, such as root canals, impacted teeth, and cysts.
If you’re concerned about the radiation exposure from dental x-rays, talk to your dentist at Heathmont Family Dentistry. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of getting x-rays and make the best decision for your oral health.
In general, most adults need dental x-rays every 1-2 years. However, the frequency of x-rays may vary depending on your individual risk factors for dental problems. For example, if you have a history of cavities, you may need x-rays more often.
If you’re not sure if you need dental x-rays, talk with us during your next visit.
