Dental radiographs (X-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular oral exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without X-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental X-rays may reveal:
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are dental X-rays safe?
Many advancements have been made in Digital Radiography and today, exposure levels from Dental X-rays are generally considered low risk. Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental X-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each X-ray. The team at Whyte Smiles Oral Care goes one step further and uses the Ultra LOW DOSE X-rays feature provided exclusively by the Acteon Unity X-Mind system and the patented Sopix2 Inside Sensor. Click here to see how Ultra LOW DOSE X-rays can be taken with less than half the radiation of other systems.
How often should dental X-rays be taken?
The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.
A full mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing X-rays (X-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.
