If you have them often enough, you likely know the basics of dental checkups. Namely, they involve an oral exam, a teeth cleaning, and some treatment options for diagnosed issues. However, you may not know why a dentist takes dental X-rays of your mouth during this process. You might think the human eye is enough to see what’s going on with your teeth. Well, your local dental practice is here to explain. Read on to learn the reasons why X-rays are taken at dental checkups.
X-Rays “See” Beyond the Surface
Unlike other tools, dental X-rays — or radiographs — let dentists see between and inside your teeth. As such, they offer a fuller picture of your oral health. Based on what they reveal, your dentist can then find and treat issues before things become more serious.
Among other things, X-rays can show:
- Areas of decay between teeth
- Decay beneath fillings
- The position of your teeth
- Cysts and other types of tumors
- Bone loss from gum disease
- Tooth abscesses
They’re Best Done Regularly
Every patient’s oral health is different. For that reason, some might need X-rays more often than others. For example, a patient with gum disease might need X-rays every six months. Meanwhile, those without ongoing dental treatment may only get an X-ray once every couple of years.
Dentists often suggest that patients get one every two or three years. Oral health can shift faster than you’d think, so an X-ray would show whether you’ve recently developed a dental problem.
If you’re a new patient who hasn’t gotten an X-ray recently, your new dentist may recommend one to assess the state of your oral health.
Dental X-Rays are Safe
You can rest assured that X-rays are perfectly safe. Studies done by the American Dental Association have proved as much.
True enough, X-rays do expose you to low radiation levels. That said, these levels have little-to-no harmful effects. Plus, your dentist can provide a leaded apron for added protection. Pregnancy is an exception to the rule, though, as radiation isn’t safe for fetuses.
In the end, X-rays are crucial tools that dentists use to preserve your oral health. Get one at your next checkup, then, if it’s been a while.
About the Practice
Vista Dental Care is based in Sparks, NV. As led by Dr. Marc Thomas, our practice emphasizes compassionate and modern dental care. In particular, we offer high-quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including emergency procedures. Great results are further guaranteed thanks to our advanced technology, especially digital X-rays and a CT scanner. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (775)-626-3535.