Gone are the days when dentists could only rely on visual and physical examinations of your teeth. Nowadays, they use dental x-rays to spot issues, even those hiding under the jawbone.
X-ray results are essential before addressing oral health problems. Dentists and orthodontists need x-rays to spot wisdom teeth, crooked teeth, suspected impacted teeth, and other dental issues.
These x-rays provide crucial information for assessments. They allow dental professionals to see the condition of both your teeth and their roots, as well as examine the placement of your jaw and facial bones.
Orthodontists also require dental x-rays before offering any teeth correction advice. X-rays are recommended both before and after fitting braces.
Different dental x-rays serve various purposes:
1. This x-ray shows parts of your teeth and mouth, revealing tooth decay and gum issues.
2. Another procedure offers an x-ray of the entire tooth structure, usually taken regularly to detect any unusual changes in the root and surrounding bones.
3. Full-mouth survey x-rays create an image of the entire mouth, showing all teeth positions, including impacted teeth.
4. Specific x-rays monitor the arch development of upper and lower teeth structures, often used for children’s dental development.
Advanced dental treatments now rely on dental CT scans, 3D and digital x-rays. These imaging techniques are mandatory before discussing diagnosis and treatment plans for your teeth.
Though the process might feel intimidating, it’s better to understand the cause of that bothersome toothache, even if your teeth appear fine.
However, dental x-rays aren’t as frequent as regular dental visits. The frequency depends on factors like age, oral health, symptoms, and history of dental problems.
If it’s your first dental x-ray, don’t worry. Your dental team is trained to make the procedure as stress-free as possible, even enjoyable for young patients.
The dental radiologist or x-ray technician assisting you is licensed and trained to capture the required angles of your teeth or mouth. They minimize your radiation exposure and ensure quality images for diagnostics or treatment.
Yes, x-rays expose you to radiation, but the levels are medically safe, even for children. Dental imaging uses very low radiation to produce images, and digital x-rays have even lower radiation than traditional x-ray films.
Most of the time, a lead bib or apron will protect you from radiation exposure. However, pregnant individuals should avoid dental x-rays as radiation, even in low amounts, can be harmful to the fetus.
Your technician will guide you on the posture or position needed for a clear x-ray. This depends on the dentist’s assessment of your condition. If issues like tooth decay or abscesses aren’t visible during visual exams, an x-ray can reveal them.
Follow the technician’s instructions to avoid position errors that could require a retake.
During the x-ray, your radiographic assistant may adjust your position and ask you to stay still briefly to capture the best image.
Dental x-rays are now a standard part of dental treatments. Based on the results, your dentist can effectively address your concerns and create a treatment plan. There’s no need to fear dental x-rays.
You’ll have a health professional with you to ensure minimal radiation exposure and a comfortable experience.