25 Feb Have You Had a Dental X-Ray Lately?
When is the last time that you had a dental x-ray taken? Dental imaging is a safe and effective diagnostic tool that allows your dentist to provide the highest level of care.
An x-ray can reveal information that your dentist cannot see during a regular oral exam. Below we’ll look at how x-rays are used and how frequently patients should receive new x-rays.
For Preventative Dental Care
Imaging gives your dentist more visibility into what’s occurring under the surface of your teeth. Using an x-ray, your dentist can see hidden areas of tooth decay, perhaps under an existing filling or in between teeth. If you are suffering from gum disease, then your dentist will use imaging to check for any related bone loss.
Before A Procedure
X-rays are usually taken before a cosmetic or restorative procedure like dental implants or bonding. This allows the cosmetic dentist to detect the shape and underlying structure of teeth and jaw to better plan for the procedure.
To Help Young Patients with Incoming Teeth
Younger patients who are expecting incoming permanent teeth, or even wisdom teeth, can benefit from dental x-rays. An image can show the dentist whether the patient’s mouth has enough room for permanent or wisdom teeth to come in. Many times incoming permanent or wisdom teeth may negatively impact surrounding teeth or the patients’ bite and further care becomes necessary.
Your dentist will decide how often you need dental x-rays taken, tailoring a program for your specific dental needs. If you are at a high risk or already diagnosed with gum disease or tooth decay, then your dentist may want to take more frequent images.
Tucson dentist Dr. John Carson uses digital x-rays, the latest imaging technology. Digital x-rays produce higher quality images of your teeth with less radiation than traditional methods. Find out more about getting the best preventative dental care in Tucson by calling Dr. Carson at (520) 514-7203.