Dental X-rays (radiographs) are pictures of your teeth that are used by your dentist to assess your oral health. These low-level radiation X-rays are used to acquire pictures of the inside of your teeth and gums. This can assist your dentist in identifying issues such as cavities, dental decay, and impacted teeth.
Adult teeth X-rays may appear complicated, but they are actually fairly common equipment that is as necessary as tooth cleanings.
Who Requires Dental X-Rays?
Dental x-rays are used for diagnostic purposes to assist dentists to discover problems that would otherwise be imperceptible to the human eye. Adults get dental x-rays taken so that dentists can better diagnose and treat various problems. Your healthcare professional can notice the following with these x-rays:
- Defective areas, such as those between teeth or under a filling
- Gum disease is connected with bone loss.
- Abscesses are infections at the tooth’s root or between the tooth and gum.
- Tumors
- Root canal modifications
Many of these issues might go undetected without an x-ray. Dentists are also better qualified to prepare dental implants, dentures, braces, and other related procedures with an x-ray as a reference.
Why are dental X-rays taken?
Dental X-rays are usually taken once a year. They may occur more frequently if your dentist is monitoring the development of a dental condition or therapy.
The following factors may influence how frequently you have dental X-rays:
- your age your present oral health any oral disease symptoms a history of gum disease (gingivitis) or tooth decay
- If you’re a new patient, you’ll most likely be subjected to dental X-rays so your new dentist can receive a complete image of your oral health. This is especially critical if you don’t have any past dentist’s X-rays.
Children may require more frequent dental X-rays than adults since their dentists may need to monitor the growth of their adult teeth. This is significant because it can assist the dentist in determining if baby teeth should be removed to avoid issues such as adult teeth growing in behind baby teeth.
Dental X-Ray Safety Precautions
There are several things your dentist may take to reduce the radiation from x-rays. Taking a single photograph rather than numerous shots considerably reduces exposure. You may also ask your dentist about utilising the lowest radiation setting feasible, especially if you have children. Certain portions of your body can be shielded from radiation by wearing leaded clothing.
Getting Ready for Dental X-Rays
No specific preparation is required for dental X-rays. The only thing you’ll want to do before your visit is wash your teeth. This provides a more sanitary environment for people who operate within your mouth. X-rays are typically taken before to cleanings.
You’ll sit in a chair with a lead vest across your chest and lap at the dentist’s office. The X-ray machine is placed next to your head to capture photos of your mouth. Some dental clinics keep X-rays in a separate area, while others keep them in the same room as cleanings and other operations.
Following dental X-rays
When the photos are available — in the case of digital X-rays, quickly — your dentist will study them and look for any anomalies. If a dental hygienist is cleaning your teeth, the dentist may go over the X-ray results with you once the cleaning is completed. The hygienist may make an exception if major concerns are discovered during the X-rays.
If your dentist discovers any issues, such as cavities or tooth decay, they will discuss your treatment options with you. Keep up the good work if your dentist detects no issues!
