Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. The amount of radiation exposure from dental x-rays is usually equivalent to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.
Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe. Diamond Dental takes the necessary precautions to limit our patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays. These precautions include the use of lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern digital x-rays instead of film which is known for higher levels of radiation. This cuts down to both the exposure time of each x-ray and the overall levels.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.
On your first visit Diamond Dental will take a panoramic x-ray in addition to either a full mouth series of x-rays or bite wing x-rays, depending on the age of the child. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.