We often think of X-rays as being reserved only for certain, extreme conditions like a broken bone. Why, then, is it included as a standard aspect of a check-up with your dentist? Why do they need it and how do they use it?
If you have found yourself asking these questions, keep reading to find out why these images are so important and how they contribute to your health!
What Are X-rays?
X-rays are images taken using high-energy electromagnetic radiation. Softer tissues, like skin and organs, don’t absorb the radiation so it passes through. More dense materials like bones and teeth will absorb it so that it can be measured using special film or digital sensors and turned into a photograph. Essentially, they can see right through your skin to your bones!
Why Does Your Dentist Need X-rays?
In an ideal world, your dentist could easily spot any potential areas of concern with a visual examination. Unfortunately, though, they can’t see all the factors at play by looking just at the surface. Your dentist needs to know the condition of your roots, jaw placement, and even facial bone composition to get a full picture of your oral health.
What Issues Can Dentists Find With X-rays?
This special imaging allows your dentist to identify:
- Decay between teeth or beneath fillings.
- Cysts or other tumors.
- Bone density loss from gum disease.
- Teeth placement.
- Abscesses.
What Are The Types of X-rays?
There are usually two types of X-rays that your dentist commonly uses, and they differ depending on the purpose of your visit. They are:
- Therapeutic X-rays. These are the ones usually included with standard visits along with an examination and professional teeth cleaning. The purpose is to provide your dentist with a holistic view of your mouth and teeth to wholly understand your oral health.
- Diagnostic X-rays. These are required when a more comprehensive view of a single area or tooth is needed to plan a more complex or larger treatment. If you need a root canal, for example, your dentist needs to see that tooth in detail very specifically.
How Often Are Dental X-rays Needed?
It’s not uncommon for your dentist to include it every 6 months with your usual checkup. Depending on your health circumstances and your dentists’ preferences, it could be less frequent. Some dentists prefer a once-annual X-ray. If you’re a new patient, your dentist will probably want to have them taken to fully assess your current condition.
Now that you understand more about why your dentist needs that X-ray, it might not feel like such a hassle to have one taken at each visit. It’s there to help your dentist give you your happiest, healthiest smile!
About the Practice
At Distinctive Dentistry, our dedicated team of dentists provides general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services for you and the entire family. We are committed to ongoing education so we can continue to use cutting-edge dental information and techniques to benefit our patients. We have digital X-rays that use 90% less radiation than non-digital images, to keep you safe. If you’d like to request an appointment, you are welcome to contact us on our website or by calling (770) 445-6606.
