Dental X-Rays
The first stage of detecting and treating any developing abnormalities, problems inside a tooth or gum line and poor tooth and root positions are dental X-rays. They are an invaluable diagnostic tool that will provide information not always visible during a visual exam to your Dentist or Dental Hygienist. Without X-rays, Dentist and Dental Hygienist’s would not be able to detect many hidden abnormalities and could not give you an accurate treatment plan. Finding these abnormalities at an early stage can help you save a lot of discomfort and money further down the line.
How often you should get X-rays depends on your particular needs. Based on the review of your previous dental history, age and symptoms, your Dentist or Dental Hygienist will recommend the frequency of your X-rays. At your new patient exam we do a full mouth x-ray series.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
That dental x-rays are unsafe and can cause radiation poisoning is a common misconception that we have heard many times. The truth is radiation is all around us and we are exposed to it in our environment on a daily basis. Full Mouth series of X-rays do not produce any more radiation that the normal amount a person receives in a single day. Because of the low level of radiation dental X-rays produce they are considered safe. We also take precautions to limit even the small amount of radiation exposure by using lead apron shields and using fast film to limit the amount of exposure time..