Dental X-rays or radiographs are procedures done by your dentist to get the images of your teeth, bones, and jaw to examine your oral health. These X-rays are safe as they only use low levels of radiation to capture images of your teeth and gum’s interiors. Dental X-rays help your dentist identify any oral problems, such as tooth decay, impacted teeth, or oral cavities.

While they seem complicated, dental X-rays are very common tools that are as important and necessary as cleaning your teeth.

Why Are Dental X-rays Performed?

Ideally, dental X-rays must be done at least once a year. However, it can be performed more often if your dentist is thoroughly tracking the progress of a dental issue or treatment.

How often you get a dental X-ray depends on certain factors such as:

  • Age
  • Current oral health condition
  • History of tooth decay or gum disease (gingivitis)
  • Symptoms of oral disease

New patients may need to get a dental X-ray for the dentist to fully assess their dental health. This is especially needed if the patient has no record from their previous dentist.

Children may be required to take dental X-rays more often than adults. Their dentist might need to monitor the growth of their adult teeth and to determine if the baby teeth must be pulled out to avoid any further complications.

Importance of Dental X-Ray in Oral Health

1. Identify Cavities

The holes in your teeth are called cavities. They are caused by plaques from certain types of food and drinks—think fatty foods, sodas, and sugary foods. The ones in between your teeth are the most common areas for cavities and can only be seen through an X-ray. The result from these X-rays will help the dentist recommend the proper treatment, which could include crowns or filling.

2. Spot Cysts and Tumors

Sometimes, dental cysts or inflamed tissue with fluid or soft material inside, are developed in the teeth area. If left untreated, they can get infected and cause further damage to your oral health. Tumours, on the other hand, are the ones affecting the bones of your teeth. Dental X-rays are done to identify possible cysts and tumours effectively. 

Both are extremely dangerous, so preventive measures must be done to ensure that they get treated as soon as possible. Through X-ray results, dentists can identify the severity of the cyst or tumour and suggest the best possible removal treatment. Dentists also use X-rays to check for cancer and other life-threatening conditions.

3. Detect Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a severe medical condition that affects millions of Europeans. Characterized by the clenching of the jaw and grinding of the teeth, bruxism typically causes discomfort and for some, severe pain. Dental X-rays are crucial in identifying cases of bruxism. Dentists use X-rays to check for damage to the jaw and bone and recommend the best possible solution to treat bruxism, such as splints and mouthguards, dental correction, or any other forms of treatment.

Like flossing and brushing your teeth, getting dental X-rays regularly is an essential part of your overall oral health and hygiene. While having a proper check-up is a relief, this doesn’t mean that you should miss having a dental X-ray. 

If you want to improve your oral health, contact Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental – Edmonton Smiles to perform dental X-rays and recommend the best possible treatment plan for you.

Posted in Clinical Advice and Oral Health Tips