Why Do Dentists Take X-rays?

Dental X-rays are images that a dentist takes to evaluate the patient’s oral health. The X-rays help capture the images of the interior parts of the teeth and gums. The images allow the dentist to identify issues such as tooth decay, cavities, gum problems, and impacted teeth. Dental X-rays are a common tool in dental practice. 

Dental X-ray: Diagnostic Tools

Dental X-rays allow the dentist to see beyond what is visible through casual examination. They can see the mouth on a deeper level, which helps to provide the best possible care. A visual examination is not enough to get a proper diagnosis of dental issues. Through the X-rays, dentists can see disease or damage that is not visible. This helps them carry out accurate diagnoses.

Why Take Dental X-rays 

Dental X-rays happen annually, but they can be more often if the dentist deems it necessary. If the patient is going through treatment, the dentist will take X-rays to track the progress. Some factors determine how often a patient gets dental X-rays. These include: 

• Patient’s age. 
• Current oral condition.
• History of gum or tooth disease.
• Symptoms of dental disease. 

New patients will normally undergo X-rays to allow the dentist to have a clear picture of the patient’s dental health. 

Dental X-rays for Children

Children will require more dental X-rays than adults. The reason for this is that children’s teeth are constantly developing and changing. Dentists need to monitor this development and make sure that the adult teeth are growing normally. 

X-rays can help determine if the baby teeth need removal to make room for adult teeth. It may be necessary to remove some baby teeth to avoid complications like adult teeth erupting behind baby teeth. 

Dental X-ray Types

Different dental X-ray types capture different views of the mouth. The common ones are:

• Panoramic X-rays.
• Periapical X-rays.
• Bitewing X-rays.
• Occlusal X-rays.
• Extraoral X-rays.

Bitewing checks for cavities between the teeth. Occlusal captures an image of all the teeth in one shot, showing how the teeth line up. 

Panoramic X-rays circle the head and are used to detect jaw problems and inspect wisdom teeth. Periapical X-rays focus on the entire tooth from the root to the crown. Extraoral X-rays are usually taken when the dentist thinks there might be problems outside the teeth and gum areas. They can diagnose jaw problems.

Risks of Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays are safe and useful in dental treatment. The procedure involves radiation, but the exposure levels are very low. This makes X-rays safe for use even on children. The risks of radiation are even lower when the dental practitioner uses digital X-rays instead of the traditional film technique. 

The dentist places a lead apron or vest over the body to avoid radiation exposure to vital organs. A thyroid collar may also be used for additional protection. The only risk associated with X-rays is when it involves pregnant women. Radiation is not safe for the developing baby.  

Proper dental hygiene as well as getting X-rays is an important part of overall oral health. Regular visits to the dentist will help ensure that you avoid dental problems.

For reasons why dentists take X-rays, visit Today's Family Dental at our office in Tampa or Lutz, Florida. You can call (813) 212-8700 today to schedule an appointment.