Benefits of Dental X-Rays

Oral health professionals perform dental X-rays because there's only so much that they can diagnose without the help of special instruments. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry suggests that imaging tests and examinations have to be taken every six months for kids at increased risk of tooth decay. On average, dentists generally request X-rays once a year. Here are the benefits of dental X-rays:

 

Tooth Decay Can Be Sneaky


 

The signs and symptoms of tooth decay vary depending on its severity and location. But there may be no visible signs at all during its very early stages. Since you may not spot it early on, dental X-rays become an essential diagnostic tool. It will help dentists find dark spots between your teeth that could turn into cavities. Otherwise, the decay can get more prominent, causing numerous symptoms. These include tooth sensitivity, pain when chewing or biting into food, and toothaches. You may also notice staining on the surface of your teeth.


 

X-Rays Can Detect Other Dental Problems


 

As you know, X-rays consist of images captured through high-energy electromagnetic radiation. Oral health professionals use them to penetrate the body to take photos, either digital or developed on a film or screen. Small dental X-rays detect small areas of decay not yet visible in your mouth and the presence of tartar that may be causing bleeding gums. X-rays also show any problems with existing dental fillings, crowns, bridges, or root canals, as well as tooth infections. 


 

X-Rays Aid in Early Detection and Intervention

 

The captured images from a full-mouth X-ray help your dentist find out how your teeth are growing in. It uncovers any tooth developmental issues such as malformed, additional, or missing teeth. X-rays also show the alignment of your teeth and if there are any impacted tooth below your gums. It reveals the presence or location of significant infections or abscesses and the position of wisdom teeth. It can determine the proximity of your teeth to the nerves and sinuses as well as show the presence and severity of gum disease. If you've encountered traumatic injuries, X-rays will show any tooth and bone fractures. X-rays can also detect even potentially life-threatening conditions. These include some types of cysts, tumors, and cancers. If done regularly, the technology helps oral health professionals identify problems in their earliest stages when intervention still works best.

 

How Often Do You Need Dental X-Rays?


 

Each person's dental health varies. Some patients who recently received a diagnosis for a dental disease may require X-rays every six months. Others who don't have any existing dental problems may only have to get the imaging test once every two years. But if you're a new patient and haven't taken an X-ray recently, your dentist will likely recommend a panoramic X-ray. By getting an image of your entire mouth, they can fully assess the state of your oral health. Several factors contribute to your dentist's decision about how often you need X-rays taken and which types are required. They will have to review your medical and dental history and consider your age and current dental needs to know for sure. 


 

Whether you are a child or an adult, you can have X-rays safely taken with Dr. Rudell Gary S. Jacinto, DMD, in Los Angeles, California at (323) 405-9428 to schedule your appointment. 

roya1234 none Closed 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Closed