In this post, we explain how modern dental technology improves your experience, comfort, and understanding during dental visits.
Why Do You Need Dental X-Rays?
X-rays are commonly used in preventive and restorative dental care. This technology provides a unique view of the teeth, gums, and jawbone to illuminate issues not visible to the naked eye during a clinical examination. X-ray images allow dentists to more effectively diagnose and treat dental disease and abnormalities.
Uses of Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are an important tool to help us both identify and track developing issues inside teeth and under the gums. We can check for cavities between teeth and underneath fillings, cysts or tumors, bone loss, and abscesses. In addition, we can use these images to guide treatment when preparing for more complex procedures such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, dentures, and orthodontics.
Frequency of Dental X-rays
Depending on your oral health and treatment plan, you may need updated X-rays anywhere once a year to every few years.
Safety of Dental X-rays
X-ray technology is a form of electromagnetic radiation. When these pulses of energy are directed at the oral cavity, some energy is absorbed and some passes through, creating an image of the anatomy. Radiation is classed as a carcinogen because prolonged and extensive exposure to radiation can cause mutations in DNA, resulting in cancer. Cancer is when body cells grow and spread controllably, which can harm healthy cells.
Dental X-rays are deemed safe because the radiation exposure is infrequent and in low amounts each time. The benefit of early disease detection outweighs the minimal risk of harm to your body’s cells. Modern dental office utilize digital X-ray technology and safety measures, such as placing lead aprons on patients, to reduce radiation exposure.
Consult with Our Team!
CarolinasDentist offers routine dental care, as well as a variety of services to treat dental disease and oral issues. If you have questions about our services or the purpose and safety of dental X-rays, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We look forward to hearing from you!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
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