What Are Dental X-Rays?
An X-ray is a diagnostic tool used in conjunction with a clinical exam that allows us to see your teeth in 2D or even 3D. Our dental X-rays are all digital and use a minimal amount of radiation; about as much as a 12-second phone call. They are safe for patients of all ages. You can have them done conveniently, right here in our office.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Needed?
X-rays will show us if there are cavities between the teeth, a very common area of dental decay. They also allow us to see the roots of the teeth and if there is any infection. We take X-rays at your routine dental exam appointments as a way for us to monitor and keep a tab on your oral health. You may need to have X-rays taken before a particular procedure, like oral surgery or dental implant placement. We take X-rays on an as-needed basis to create a treatment plan that is specific to your needs.
What Can Dental X-Rays Detect?
X-rays allow us to see what we can't see with our eyes. They are useful for a variety of different treatment needs. Some things that an X-ray can help us to find include:
- Decay
- Bone and gum tissue loss
- Restoration problems
- Infections and abscesses
- Impacted teeth
- Pediatric tooth development
- Height, width and density of bone for a dental implant
What Happens When Dental X-Rays Are Taken?
Our trained staff will place a small sensor inside the mouth and align the X-ray machine to it. The necessary images are taken and immediately transposed to our computer screens. Sometimes, a panoramic X-ray is needed to capture all of the teeth at once or to see your wisdom teeth. You simply stand still and the machine rotates slowly around, capturing all the information we need.
Our office is equipped with the latest in X-ray and diagnostic technology. Schedule an appointment by calling or texting us at (972) 833-0151 or by filling out our contact form. Our staff will be happy to answer any questions you have about getting dental X-rays done and any other details you'd like clarified.
What do dental X-rays allow us to see?
Dental X-rays, in addition to our visual exam, allow us to see areas between the teeth and other structures that we otherwise wouldn't be able to see during a visual examination alone.
How often are dental X-rays taken?
How often we take dental X-rays depends on your individual oral health, dental history, risk of cavities, and what we need to evaluate. Some patients may need X-rays more frequently than others, so we'll determine the appropriate timing based on your needs.
What are the main types of dental X-rays?
There are a few main types of dental X-rays. A panoramic X-ray gives us a broad view of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. Then there are intraoral X-rays, where we put the sensor inside your mouth.
Bitewing X-rays show the upper and lower teeth in the same area and are commonly used to look between the teeth. Periapical X-rays show the entire tooth down to the root and surrounding bone, which can help us look for problems around the root.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental X-rays use a low amount of radiation. We use digital X-rays, which allow us to capture the images we need while limiting radiation exposure. We also take X-rays based on your individual diagnostic needs rather than taking them unnecessarily.
What can dental X-rays show?
Dental X-rays can show cavities that may be between the teeth. They can also help us identify signs of infection and give us a better idea of the extent of tooth decay and other problems that may not be visible during a clinical exam.
Can dental X-rays show periodontal disease?
Dental X-rays can help us evaluate periodontal disease by showing changes in the bone supporting the teeth, including bone loss. We combine those findings with a clinical examination of your gums to evaluate your periodontal health.
Are dental X-rays covered by insurance?
Dental insurance may provide coverage for X-rays, but the amount and frequency of coverage depend on your individual plan. We can review your benefits with you so you have a better idea of what your plan may cover.
How often should you get a dental exam?
Many patients have dental exams on a regular schedule, but how often you should come in depends on your individual oral health. If you have periodontal disease or other dental concerns, we may recommend seeing you more frequently based on your needs.
If you're ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we'd love to hear from you. Call us at (972) 833-0151 or email [email protected]. We look forward to caring for your smile.