When you think of a dental appointment, a cleaning and check-up probably come to mind. But what about dental X-rays? While they might seem routine, X-rays play a crucial role in keeping your smile healthy. They give your dentist a behind-the-scenes look at your teeth, gums, and jaw—something a visual exam alone can’t provide. At Cary Family Dentistry, we encourage regular dental X-rays because they help catch problems early, often before you feel any discomfort.
What Are Dental X-Rays, and How Do They Work?
Dental X-rays, also called radiographs, use low levels of radiation to create detailed images of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. These images help your dentist see parts of your mouth that aren’t visible during a routine exam. Think of X-rays as a behind-the-scenes look at your oral health.
There are different types of dental X-rays, each serving a unique purpose. Bitewing X-rays, for example, show the upper and lower teeth in one area and are great for spotting cavities between teeth. Panoramic X-rays, on the other hand, capture your entire mouth in one image, helping detect issues like impacted teeth or jaw disorders.
What Do Dental X-Rays Show?
Dental X-rays help detect issues that aren’t visible during a regular exam. They can reveal:
- Cavities between teeth or under existing fillings
- Early signs of gum disease
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Abscesses or infections
- Impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth)
- Changes in tooth position or alignment
Spotting these problems early can save you from more complicated—and costly—treatments down the road.
How Often Do You Need Dental X-Rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your oral health, age, and risk factors. For most people, bitewing X-rays (which show the upper and lower back teeth) are recommended once a year. However, if you have a history of dental problems, your dentist may recommend them more frequently. Children may need X-rays more often because their teeth and jaws are still developing.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
A common concern among patients is radiation exposure from X-rays. The good news is that modern dental X-rays use very low levels of radiation, making them safe for both children and adults. In fact, you’re exposed to more radiation during a cross-country flight than you are during a dental X-ray.
Digital X-rays, which are now widely used, further reduce radiation exposure compared to traditional film X-rays. Plus, they provide clearer images, which helps your dentist make accurate diagnoses more quickly.
Why Early Detection Matters at Cary Family Dentistry
Catching dental issues early can make all the difference in preserving your smile. At Cary Family Dentistry in Cary, IL, Dr. Niraj Patel and our team use dental X-rays as a key part of your preventive care. Regular X-rays allow us to spot problems before they become serious, saving you time, money, and discomfort in the long run. If you’re due for a check-up or have questions about dental X-rays, contact us today to schedule your appointment!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0