At your visit to Dbay Dental, we may request to take radiographs (x-rays). We only take these when necessary and understand that there may be be some hesitation as to why. Although the dentist is looking at your teeth and they are well trained, the naked eye cannot always pick up vital information required to present the most suitable treatment options.
Dental X-rays are important for several reasons:
- Diagnosis of Dental Issues: X-rays allow dentists to detect dental problems that may not be visible during a regular dental examination. This includes cavities, gum disease, impacted teeth, and infections.
- Monitoring Oral Health: X-rays help dentists track changes in your oral health over time. This is important for identifying issues like bone loss or tumors.
- Treatment Planning: Dentists use X-rays to plan various dental treatments, such as orthodontic procedures, dental implants, and extractions. They can get a clear view of the structure of your teeth and jawbone.
- Evaluation of Tooth Development: In pediatric dentistry, X-rays are used to monitor the development of children’s teeth and jaws. This helps ensure that teeth are growing properly.
- Oral Surgery: For oral surgeons, X-rays are essential for procedures like wisdom teeth extraction and reconstructive surgery.
- Preventive Care: X-rays can catch dental problems early, potentially preventing more serious issues down the line.
It’s worth noting that the exposure to radiation in dental X-rays is minimal, and modern equipment and techniques further reduce the amount of radiation used, making them a safe and valuable tool in dental care. The frequency and type of X-rays you need depend on your individual oral health and risk factors. Your dentist will determine the appropriate X-rays based on your specific needs.
Here at Dbay Dental, we have and OPG machine (Orthopantomagram), this can be particularly handy when needing to see wisdom teeth and will save you time having to go to an x-ray clinic.