Your dentist will use dental X-rays, also known as radiographs, to take pictures of your teeth to assess your oral health. Images of the inside of your teeth and gums are captured using these low-radiation X-rays – This might make it easier for your dentist to spot cavities and tooth decay issues. Although dental X-rays may appear complicated, they are reasonably frequent and just as crucial as regular dental cleanings.
How and why dental X-rays are used
An annual dental X-ray is usual. If your dentist keeps track of how a dental condition or treatment is doing, they could occur more frequently. Your age, oral health, any signs of an oral illness, a history of gum disease, or tooth decay may affect how often you have dental X-rays. You’ll likely have dental X-rays taken if you’re a new patient so your new dentist can fully understand your oral health.
Since their dentists may need to keep an eye on the development of their adult teeth, children may require dental X-rays more frequently than adults. The dentist can use this information to assess if baby teeth need to be removed to avoid issues like adult teeth erupting in front of baby teeth.
Dental X-ray preparation
Brushing your teeth before your visit will be the only thing you should do. For individuals who operate within your mouth, it makes the atmosphere more sanitary. Typically, X-rays are performed before cleanings.
Dental X-ray risks
Dental X-rays expose individuals to radiation. However, the exposure levels are so minimal that children and adults are considered safe. Your dangers from radiation exposure are significantly lower if your dentist utilises digital X-rays rather than processing them on film.
All forms of X-rays should be avoided by pregnant women or those who suspect they could be pregnant. If you think you might be pregnant, let your dentist know since radiation is not considered safe for foetuses that are still developing.
Different types of X-rays
Dental X-rays come in various forms that capture somewhat varied perspectives of your mouth.
Panoramic
The X-ray machine revolves around the head for this particular sort of scan. To inspect your wisdom teeth, make arrangements for dental implants, or look at jaw issues, your dentist may perform this method.
Occlusal
To check how your upper and lower teeth line up, an X-ray is taken with your jaw closed. The mouth’s palate or floor of the mouth can both be used to discover anatomical problems.
Dental X-rays – Periapical
This method focuses on two whole teeth, right from the root.
Bitewing
For your dentist to observe how well the crowns of your teeth match up, you must use this method while biting down on a particular piece of paper. To examine for cavities between teeth, this is frequently used.
Extraoral X-rays
This is utilised when your dentist suspects there may be issues with the jaw or other places outside the gums and teeth.
Following dental X-rays
Your dentist will evaluate the photos and look for any problems once they are complete. When the dental hygienist has finished cleaning your teeth, the dentist could discuss the X-ray findings with you. The only exception is if the hygienist notices any severe issues while taking the X-rays. Your dentist will review your treatment choices if they discover problems like cavities or tooth decay.
