For years, dental x-rays have been used to diagnose oral health complications and detect decaying or damaged teeth. X-rays provide a unique view of the mouth that isn’t possible with a visual exam alone. When x-rays are taken, the teeth and bones absorb the majority of the ray. This makes them highly visible on film or a screen. Nearly all new dental patients are x-rayed, although you may instead request that previous x-rays be transferred from another dental provider to your new dentist. By comparing your x-rays with your full mouth examination and dental history, Dr. Zeitlin can prescribe effective treatment and recommend a plan for preventative care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get dental x-rays?
Yes. Digital x-rays can identify tooth decay and damage beneath the surface of the teeth where caries are less visible during an examination. Furthermore, x-rays provide a reference point for the progression of decay in your mouth over time. You should have x-rays taken regularly, but especially if you are experiencing oral health complications or are planning to undergo a dental procedure, such as a root canal.
What should I expect when I get dental x-rays?
Getting traditional dental x-rays can take several minutes. A thick paper tab is placed into the mouth, which you will be asked to bite down on. Most patients find that digital x-rays are completely painless and do not inflict any level of discomfort. In some cases, dentists intraoral x-rays, as well as extra-oral x-rays that snap images of the face, jaw, and skull. Extra-oral x-rays are typically used to identify impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth.
What happens after my dentist has taken x-rays?
When we are done with examining your x-rays, we will either save them digitally or on film. It’s possible your dentist may request new x-rays to be taken in the future to see the changes in your mouth every few years. This includes not just your teeth but also your gums and jaw as time progresses. If you’re deemed high risk for disease or have symptoms, then it’s likely your dentist will want you to have x-rays performed more frequently.
