Although dental X-Rays are a standard component of check-ups, you might ask if they are actually necessary if you don't get them every time and your teeth are typically clear of cavities.
If you don't typically have cavities or other dental issues, can you avoid them? Or are they just as necessary as the deep cleaning your dentist offers?
Dental X-rays
The American Dental Association advises that in order to make an educated decision, dentists and patients should review treatment options, including dental x-rays. You can discuss your alternatives and medical background with your dentist. Your dentist can let you know if they believe you are healthy enough to forgo an x-ray or if they advise you to have one.
What Are Dental X-Rays Used For?
Dental x-rays find any damage or disease in your teeth and gums that is not otherwise obvious during an examination, as well as any problems that are already present or developing.
These demonstrate to your dentist any problem regions and support concerns about cavities, infections, and other things. Dental x-rays locate any oral health issues so that your dentist can best advise you on your next move. Dentists will occasionally alert you to prospective cavities so you may take steps to stop them from developing.
Without dental x-rays, hidden dental issues like tooth decay could go unnoticed and develop into more serious dental issues. Although they cannot look into your gum itself, your dentist can see some gum issues. Your teeth's bone cannot be seen by them. Your dentist won't be aware of a problem if it isn't evident to the eye. Dental x-rays are required for your oral health because of this.
We've established the value of dental exams, so let's look at how frequently you should have them.
Dental X-rays: How Often Should You Have Them?
One's exposure to x-rays varies depending on a variety of variables. As every person's mouth, oral hygiene routine, and dental history are unique, there is no one solution that applies to everyone. Your age, oral health, disease risk, and whether you have displayed any symptoms of damage or disease will all have an impact on how frequently you receive dental x-rays.
Honest Teeth dental x-ray technology in Elm Grove, WI
You can discuss with your dentist whether to forgo an x-ray this checkup if you're an adult with healthy teeth who has demonstrated no risk for injury or disease. According to the American Dental Association, having x-rays taken every two to three years is acceptable for healthy persons who have no obvious risk for oral injury.
But, your dentist will advise more frequent x-rays if you have a history of dental issues or have demonstrated the potential to develop damage or disease so that they can make sure your oral health is in good shape. If it isn't, they can suggest possible remedies for the issue moving forward. To check for any dental illness while pregnant, you might need to have dental x-rays taken.
But what about radiation?
Dental x-ray radiation is frequently feared by people. Is it truly safe for you to be exposed to it after all, the dentist goes to a different room.
While you are exposed to radiation during dental x-rays, the levels are so low as to significantly reduce the possibility of any adverse consequences. Even those who are pregnant or breast-feeding can receive dental x-rays without anxiety because the radiation levels are so low.
Do you require a dental appointment?
Maintaining your oral health requires routine dental exams, so schedule them as soon as possible. Our patients receive high-quality dental care from Honest Teeth Dentistry. Please get in touch with us right away if you have any inquiries about dental x-rays or would want to set up an appointment.