Dental X-Rays: Why Are They Necessary?

If you’ve ever suffered a broken bone or sustained some sort of internal injury, you’ve probably gone to have X-rays taken at one or multiple points throughout receiving treatment. This is a standard but important part of the process; the X-rays give your provider access to details that aren’t normally observable to the naked eye. However, X-rays also have several useful applications in the world of dentistry! Keep reading to learn a little more about how your dentist in Dallas is able to use X-rays to provide an exceptional level of care for your smile.

Why Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?

Typically, your dentist will want to take X-rays of your mouth during your very first appointment with them; this helps to establish a rough baseline for your current oral health and also gives your provider a clear idea of what they’re working with. After that, the frequency of your dental X-rays will vary, depending on your individual circumstances and your dentist’s discretion. If your mouth is relatively healthy, you should only need dental X-rays taken every few years (the American Dental Association recommends every 2 – 3 years). However, if you’re dealing with an oral health issue like gum disease or tooth decay, or you’re at an increased risk of some other serious concern, your dentist might want to take X-rays of your mouth on a regular basis.

Since one of the major goals of modern dentistry is the prevention of major problems, X-rays have incredible value! Dental X-rays are very useful for spotting many different potential issues, such as:

• Cavities and tooth decay (in both natural teeth and fillings).
• Hidden cysts or other types of tumors.
• Jawbone deterioration.
• Dental abscesses or infections around the roots of teeth.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

It’s worth mentioning that X-rays do involve some radiation, but these levels are quite low and considered safe for both adults and children alike. This means that receiving dental X-rays isn’t anything that you should feel anxious about! You’ll be given a leaded apron to wear over your torso to help prevent any unnecessary radiation exposure to your vital organs. Some dentists even use digital X-rays instead of developing on film, which further lowers the risk of radiation exposure. But ultimately, the process is completely safe and arguably quite necessary for the prevention of serious and costly oral health issues.

If your dentist has informed you that they’d like to take some dental X-rays of your smile, don’t fret; this practice will give them a detailed view of your mouth that’s certain to assist them with caring for it accordingly.

About the Author

Dr. Xinxing Liu received her DMD from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine and is a proud member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. Her practice in Dallas is thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit, you can contact Dr. Liu through her practice’s website or over the phone for assistance: (469) 210-7223.