Oral X-rays are important for ensuring proper oral health and development. However, many patients are unfamiliar with oral X-rays and why they are necessary, so below is a quick rundown of why they are so important to maintaining oral health.
What Are Oral X-Rays?
Oral X-rays are a specific type of medical imaging that allows a dentist to get an in-depth look at their patients’ teeth and jaws. They’re commonly used in dental checkups to detect and diagnose problems that may not be visible otherwise.
Like other types of X-rays, a dental X-ray machine emits a low dose of radiation that can pass through soft tissue but not teeth and bones. The process is somewhat similar to taking a photograph, with the critical difference being that everything other than your teeth and bones is essentially transparent to the camera.[1]
The Benefits of Oral X-Rays
Oral X-rays play a crucial role in identifying various potential oral health issues. Tooth decay is one prominent example. While cavities and decay are often visible to the naked eye, they can also occur in spots that can’t typically be seen. Oral X-rays provide detailed images of your teeth so that your dentist can spot early signs of decay.
The same goes for gum disease. About 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. have some level of periodontitis, which often goes undiagnosed.[2] Dental X-rays can help your dentist evaluate the health of your gums and the underlying bone structure.
These X-rays are essential during the development of younger patients. An X-ray can reveal issues such as impacted teeth, a condition most common with wisdom teeth. When there isn’t enough room for them to emerge, they can press against adjacent teeth, causing pain. X-rays can also show when it’s time to have your child’s wisdom teeth removed.
Types of Dental X-Rays
Your family’s dentist may choose from several different types of dental X-rays depending on the specific evaluation or diagnosis they are attempting.
Intraoral X-rays are the most common and provide a detailed view of the inside of your mouth and individual teeth, while extraoral X-rays capture a larger image of the jaw and skull.[1] There are also panoramic X-rays that can capture your entire mouth in a single image, which is useful when detecting cysts, tumors, and bone abnormalities.[1]
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Many patients are concerned about the safety of X-rays, but no matter the type of X-ray, the radiation dose from a single set is incredibly low. They are prevalent throughout the entire medical field because they are considered safe, but even then, precautions such as protective aprons are used to further minimize exposure. Digital X-rays are often used today, providing even lower radiation exposure.
How Often Should I Have Dental X-Rays?
The frequency at which you’ll need dental X-rays depends on various risk factors. Typically during your routine checkups, your dental hygienist will conduct dental X-rays as part of the checkup. It is especially important in younger patients who are still developing and require closer monitoring of their teeth. If you have a history of dental problems, your dentist may recommend more frequent and different X-rays.
A Trusted Family Dentist Near Me for Oral X-Rays
If you want to take proactive action regarding your oral health, Albion Family Dental is your place for routine exams, oral X-rays, and more. We’ll ensure your family’s smiles stay strong and healthy, identifying and treating any issues as early as possible. Call 585-589-9044 or contact us online to book an appointment today.
Sources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/gum-periodontal-disease.html
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/11199-dental-x-rays