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Why Does My Dentist Need To Take X-rays?

tooth xray

Sometimes in our Cincinnati dental office, we need to take x-rays of our patients. We occasionally get questions about the need for dental x-ray – why we need to take them and the different kinds available.

Why Do I Need To Get X-Rays Taken Of My Teeth?

Your dentist knows that x-rays are a valuable part of protecting your dental health, and a crucial diagnostic tool. The x-ray imaging can detect problems with your gums and teeth that your dentist cannot see during the checkup.

X-rays made during regular dental checkups in Cincinnati can show:

1. the condition of your teeth and their roots
2. any issues with jaw alignment
3. the presence or extent of gum disease, abscesses and cavities
4. abnormal growths such as tumors or cysts

X-rays made for special purposes include those that show:

– the location of impacted teeth
– teeth that are not fully developed but are causing a problem

What Is The Recommended Frequency Of Dental X-Rays?

Dentists usually take X-rays are according to your needs – not on a pre-arranged schedule. If you have problems that could become more troublesome, then X-rays may be taken during each visit to track and evaluate your oral health. Your dentist may want to take x-rays every six months to make sure you do not have a problem developing. Your age is a factor in determining the frequency of x-rays, as is your dental history.

What Kind Of X-rays Will My Dentist Take?

Bitewing X-Ray

The most common dental x-ray is the bitewing x-ray. These x-rays will show the most common areas where decay is happening. They will focus on the spaces between the teeth, as these are areas where decay-causing bacteria commonly thrive.

Periapical X-Ray

Another common x-ray is the periapical x-ray, which provides an image of the entire tooth including the root structure and the bone anchoring the roots. This x-ray will also show cysts and abscesses.

Panoramic X-Ray

The panoramic x-ray, also called a radiograph, shows your whole mouth. The upper and lower teeth and sections of your jaw appear in a single image. This is a valuable x-ray for predicting how children’s teeth will develop. It can also show complications involving wisdom teeth, before they break through the gum.

Your dentist may believe that a bitewing x-ray is sufficient, or may suggest a more comprehensive x-ray. Your dentist will judge this based on what they see in a visual exam, and based on what you tell them about problems you are experiencing.
References:

https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/xrays.html

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