5 Important Facts to Know About Dental X-Rays

Oct 22, 2018 | Uncategorized

You have probably received a dental X-ray at some point, but do you actually know why they are used?

Facts about dental X-rays

By gaining knowledge as to what a dental X-ray is and why it is utilized, you can better understand the dentist’s purpose for the machine.

The following are five important facts about dental X-rays.

Dental X-rays can detect many different oral health concerns

The main reason a dental X-ray is performed is to determine whether there are any oral health concerns that exist. Here are just a few of the many things a dental X-ray can reveal about a patient:

  • Uncover cavities
  • Spot signs of periodontal disease
  • See tooth roots
  • Examine the bone around the teeth
  • Track the development of teeth

Of course, there are many other functions of a dental X-ray, and the reason for ordering a dental X-ray may be specific for each patient.

Dental X-rays are diagnostic and preventive

While dental X-rays can most certainly help in diagnosing already existing oral problems, they can also help spot early signs of oral health concerns, which allows dentists to treat an issue before it even develops in the first place.

There are various forms of dental X-rays

Not all dental X-rays are the same. In fact, there are multiple different types. The most common include periapical, bitewing, panoramic and occlusal dental X-rays.

The type of X-ray ordered by the dentist is based upon the needs of the patient. If there is a concern about a patient’s back teeth, then a bite-wing dental X-ray may be ordered. If a patient is preparing for dental implants, a panoramic or occlusal dental X-ray may be used instead.

Dental X-rays are safe for both adults and children

One of the most common questions dentists receive about X-rays is whether the radiation is damaging in any way, particularly to young children.

Receiving an X-ray is completely safe for both adults and children of any age, as it is a very low level of radiation.

Dental X-rays are painless and take only a couple of minutes

Lastly, there is no reason to worry about a dental X-ray being an invasive experience. They are completely painless and completed in a matter of minutes.

If you have any concerns about dental X-rays, including why they are ordered, what they reveal and how the process of receiving an X-ray works, be sure to discuss dental X-rays with your dentist and ask any questions you may have about the testing procedure.

Call our Leawood, KS, dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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