Dental x-rays are also called radiographs. Your age, health, individual needs, and risk factors all affect how often dental x-rays are taken. Your Newport Beach dentist may require dental x-rays if:
- You’re a new patient or if you haven’t seen him in a while.
- You are required to have a dental x-ray if you are on a follow-up visit after a particular dental treatment.
- To show the condition of your teeth, their roots, your facial bones, and your jaw placement.
- To help the dentist see if you have the periodontal (gum) disease and how bad it is.
- Dental x-rays also reveal cavities, abscesses, and abnormal growths like cysts and tumors.
- It can save you time, money and pain. If you have a hidden dental disease, it may help save your life!
Different Types of Dental X-Rays
- The most common type of dental X-ray is called Bitewing X-ray. It can determine if there is decay between the teeth which is one of the most common areas where decay-causing bacteria live. This x-ray also will also show bone loss when severe gum disease or a dental infection is present.
- Periapical x-ray is another type of Dental X-ray which gives an image to the dentist of the entire teeth to help them evaluate the root structures as well as the bone levels, cysts or abscesses.
- Another type of Dental Xray that lets the dentist see the entire structure of your mouth is called a panoramic radiograph. It can show the upper and lower teeth parts and can also see the developing teeth of kids especially the wisdom teeth.
- Some dentists may also use digital radiography. It is a method that utilizes an electronic sensor instead of X-ray film. An electronic image is taken which can be seen on a computer screen. Less radiation is needed to make a dental image.
The amount of radiation used in dental X-rays is low, but there is always risk factors to consider because of exposure. Therefore, it is important that you must tell your dentist if you are or might be pregnant.
Records show no evidence yet that a routine dental X-ray could harm a fetus, but your Newport Beach dentist may suggest postponing any X-rays until the baby is born.