1777 N Bellflower Blvd #213, Long Beach, CA 90815
Uncover the Hidden: the Importance of Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are essential diagnostic tools that uncover issues not visible during a routine exam. They enable dentists and hygienists to safely and accurately identify hidden dental problems and create effective treatment plans. Without X-rays, potential issues may go unnoticed.
What Dental X-rays Can Show
- Detection of abscesses or cysts
- Identification of bone loss
- Spotting cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
- Finding decay between teeth
- Recognizing developmental abnormalities
- Evaluating tooth and root alignment issues
- Diagnosing problems within teeth or below the gum line
Identifying and addressing dental issues early can save you time, money, discomfort, and help preserve your teeth!
Are Dental X-rays Safe?
We are all naturally exposed to radiation in our environment every day. The radiation from a full-mouth series of dental X-rays is equivalent to what a person receives in a single day from natural sources.
Dental X-rays emit a very low level of radiation and are considered safe. To minimize exposure, dentists take precautions like using lead aprons for protection and modern, fast film to reduce X-ray exposure time.
How Often Should Dental X-rays Be Taken?
The need for dental X-rays varies based on each patient’s dental health. Your dentist and hygienist will recommend X-rays based on your medical history, dental exam, symptoms, age, and disease risk.
A full-mouth series is typically recommended for new patients and is usually valid for three to five years. Bite-wing X-rays, which show the top and bottom teeth biting together, are taken during check-up visits and are generally recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental issues.