HOW OFTEN DO I NEED X-RAYS?
Our office uses the latest low-exposure digital radiograph technology, and we take only the minimum x-rays necessary to effectively diagnose your oral health. There are many types of dental x-rays and they each have different diagnostic purposes. A panoramic x-ray is excellent for making sure all of the teeth are in place in growing children, looking at wisdom teeth and checking the upper and lower jaws for fractures or tumors. A “periapical” x-ray is used to show the dentist the entire tooth including the root to check for cavities, infections, and root fractures. “Bitewing” x-rays show only the portion of the tooth visible in your mouth and are used to check for cavities between the teeth. The loss of supporting bone from periodontal disease, is also visible. While we use the lowest radiation levels possible, patients can feel reassured when having digital x-rays taken because our providers place a lead apron over you before exposing your teeth.
Which x-rays you need, and how often they are taken is determined on an individual basis. Factors such as your age, the health of your mouth, your risk of cavities and gum disease and your current dental work determine what is needed. Sometimes your insurance will need a certain image to determine coverage for a procedure. During your initial comprehensive exam appointment and subsequent dental cleaning appointments, we will recommend any necessary x-rays and discuss the reasons with you to ensure you are fully informed.
Our office uses the latest low-exposure digital radiograph technology, and we take only the minimum x-rays necessary to effectively diagnose your oral health. There are many types of dental x-rays and they each have different diagnostic purposes. A panoramic x-ray is excellent for making sure all of the teeth are in place in growing children, looking at wisdom teeth and checking the upper and lower jaws for fractures or tumors. A “periapical” x-ray is used to show the dentist the entire tooth including the root to check for cavities, infections, and root fractures. “Bitewing” x-rays show only the portion of the tooth visible in your mouth and are used to check for cavities between the teeth. The loss of supporting bone from periodontal disease, is also visible. While we use the lowest radiation levels possible, patients can feel reassured when having digital x-rays taken because our providers place a lead apron over you before exposing your teeth.
Which x-rays you need, and how often they are taken is determined on an individual basis. Factors such as your age, the health of your mouth, your risk of cavities and gum disease and your current dental work determine what is needed. Sometimes your insurance will need a certain image to determine coverage for a procedure. During your initial comprehensive exam appointment and subsequent dental cleaning appointments, we will recommend any necessary x-rays and discuss the reasons with you to ensure you are fully informed.
