Why does my dentist insist on taking x-rays?
Dental Radiographs are among the most valuable tools your dentist has for keeping your mouth and teeth healthy. By understanding what the structures of the mouth look like normally on an x-ray a dentist can diagnose problems in the teeth and jaws.
X-rays show areas of decay that may not be able to be seen with just a visual examination, such as tiny pits of decay, cracks and other damage that might occur between teeth and under any existing fillings. It also alerts the dentist to possible bone loss associated with periodontal (gum) disease. It also reveals abnormalities such as cysts, cancer and changes associated with metabolic and systemic diseases.
Your radiographic schedule is based on the dentist’s assessment of your individual needs, including whether you’re a new patient or a follow-up patient, adult or child. In most cases, new patients require a full set of mouth x-rays to evaluate oral health status, including any underlying signs of gum disease and for future comparison. Follow up patients may require x-rays to monitor their gum condition or their chance of tooth decay.
Children usually need x-rays every six months to one year, depending on age, because they are highly likely to develop caries. X-rays also help monitor tooth development.
Adults with extensive restoration work, including fillings are among the ones that need more frequent radiographs. All the conditions that helped create the caries to begin with continue, making it necessary to check for decay beneath the new fillings, crowns and any new locations in which decay may develop. Also those with periodontal disease or a history of periodontal disease, taking medications that lead to dry mouth and smokers require more frequency in x-rays.
Digital x-rays are one of the best x-ray advancements which are constantly improving. Technology breakthroughs in sensors and software have resulted in dental images that far exceed those of traditional film x-rays. Digital x-rays provide less radiation exposure; up to 80% from traditional film x-rays. As well as instant on screen images, and enhancements which assist the doctor in giving a superior and rapid diagnosis.
We are all sensitive about exposure to radiation. Your dentist and his dental assistant (who should be licensed in the State of New Jersey to take radiographs), have been trained in techniques to minimize your exposure to radiation.
