Dental X-rays are basically images of the teeth that a general dentist uses to evaluate your oral health. While a visual exam is beneficial, it does not tell dentists everything they need to know. Fortunately, dental X-rays help dentists to accurately diagnose and treat dental problems early. Just like brushing and flossing, getting regular dental X-rays is a vital part of your overall oral health.
Dental X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool when assisting dentists to detect damage and disease not visible during a regular dental exam. Also known as radiographs, X-rays give dental professions the ability to see between and inside the teeth. Dentists can also look at the tip of the roots and bone underneath gums. These are some of the places that are not normally visible to the naked eye.
X-rays are commonly used as part of a routine exam to rule out dental disease. But X-rays can also help a general dentist in diagnosing any particular or isolated dental problems a patient might be experiencing. X-rays can be used by dentists to detect cavities and to evaluate the extent of the decay. It is also much easier to diagnose cysts, abscesses, and other masses because X-rays show the root of the tooth. Congenitally missing or impacted teeth can also be identified this way. Any bone loss due to periodontal disease can also be seen with X-rays.
How often X-rays should be taken depends on several factors. These include one’s current oral health, age, the risk for disease, and any symptoms of oral disease. Dentists usually review the patient’s history, examine the mouth, and then determine whether a patient needs X-rays. For a new patient, the general dentist may recommend X-rays to determine the patient’s present oral health status.
Kids may require X-rays more often than adults. Their dentists usually need to monitor the growth of their adult teeth. This can help dentists to decide if baby teeth need to be extracted to avoid complications. This includes adult teeth growing in behind baby teeth.
X-rays are not harmful and often expose patients to a minimal amount of radiation. Dental X-ray tools as well as techniques are designed to limit the body’s exposure to radiation. When all precautions are taken, today’s X-ray equipment eliminates unnecessary radiation and allows the provider to focus the X-ray beam on a specific part of the mouth. A leaded thyroid collar and/or a leaded apron may also be used to protect the thyroid and abdomen.
To protect your oral health, brush at least twice a day and floss consistently. Using a fluoride toothpaste is recommended. Dental checkups and routine X-rays are also crucial for a healthy mouth. X-rays are very beneficial because they help to find problems that cannot be seen with an oral exam. Dentists use them to spot problems early on in the mouth, teeth, gums, and jaw. Treating problems early can help you avoid many problems in the long run and even save money.
Request an appointment here: https://stonecanyondental.com or call Stone Canyon Dental at (972) 996-3191 for an appointment in our Sunnyvale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Sunnyvale, TX.
You might think that if you are diligent about brushing and flossing at home, you can visit a dentist's office less often. However, general dentistry professionals agree that regularly visiting a dentist is important for your dental and overall health, even with good oral hygiene. In addition, there are numerous reasons it is a good…
Your experienced general dentist can repair your cavities. Assessing your teeth will come first. Then, the dentist will discuss the treatment options with you. Knowing which option can help you the most can prepare you for the visit. Here are the details about the different cavity treatments that your general dentist can discuss with you.The…
Tooth extraction frequently occurs in the office of a general dentist for a variety of reasons, including:Bacterial decayAccidental breakageOvercrowdingImpactionMost patients are more concerned about the gap the tooth leaves behind than its fate outside their mouths. An extracted tooth usually takes one of the following paths, depending on whether the dentist or the patient claims…
If a general dentist recommends a dental crown, there are a variety of reasons why. Crowns can be used for cosmetic corrections as well as for protection and support. These dental restorations may seem intimidating to those who have never had one, but they do not have to be. Here are some questions to ask…
Full dentures can replace the teeth of each dental arch. Your gums and saliva will form a seal to help keep them in place. Getting these restorations can be life-changing. Understanding what will happen after getting them can help prepare you for each step. Here are the things you must look forward to after getting…
Dentures are a great solution for people who have lost some or all of their teeth. They can restore one's ability to eat and speak properly and improve the overall appearance of your smile. However, you may have questions about the denture process, from the initial consultation to the final fitting. This blog article will…
