Dental X-Rays (Radiographs)
Dental X-Rays May Reveal New Details About Your Dental Health
Are Radiographs Safe? What They Can Reveal & Why You Need Them
Did you know that eating 50 bananas is the equivalent of one dental X-ray? Dental X-rays are a vital part of maintaining your oral health. Though many people are concerned about the safety of X-rays, they are actually very safe. They can reveal hidden cavities, infections, and other problems that would be difficult to detect with a visual examination alone. For this reason, dentists recommend that everyone have at least one set of X-rays annually. So if you’re due for an X-ray, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at True Dental Care Of Bloomfield!
Similarly, did you know that passengers flying from New York to L.A. are exposed to eight times more radiation than they would receive from a dental X-ray? Thus the amount of radiation exposure from a dental X-ray is minimal, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. In fact, dental X-rays are one of the most effective tools we have for detecting and treating dental problems in their early stages. So if you’re due for a checkup, don’t be concerned about getting a few X-rays – they could just save your smile.
Moreover, digital X-rays use less radiation than traditional film X-rays. When it comes to oral health, it is important to get regular dental X-rays as advised by your dentist. This way, you can keep your smile healthy and prevent serious problems from developing.
A Closer Look: Why You Should Care About the Details
Dental X-rays may look complicated, but they are routine tools and essential for oral care. Dental X-rays (radiographs) are pictures of your teeth produced by a dentist to evaluate your oral health. These X-rays, which employ low amounts of radiation, capture pictures of the inside of your teeth and gums. This may aid your dentist in detecting problems such as cavities, dental decay, and impacted teeth.
Dental X-Rays: Why They're Performed and What They Mean for Your Teeth
The frequency of dental X-rays is usually once a year. If your dentist is monitoring the development of a dental condition or therapy, it might be done more frequently.
The frequency of dental X-rays may be impacted by the following:
- Age
- Your current dental health
- Symptoms of the oral illness include soreness and redness.
- Presence of gum disease and tooth decay—both of which can cause bleeding gums.
If you’re a new patient, your dentist will most likely take X-rays of your teeth to accurately understand your dental situation. This is particularly vital if you didn’t have any X-rays from your previous dentist.
Dentists often take X-rays of children more frequently than adults to monitor the development of their adult teeth. This is important because it can help the dentist determine if baby teeth need to be extracted, which in turn might prevent problems such as adult teeth growing behind baby teeth.
Dental X-Rays: The Risks You Should Know
Dental X-rays utilize radiation, but the doses are so small that they are considered safe for children and adults. If your dentist uses digital X-rays rather than film to make them, you’ll have even less danger from radiation exposure.
A lead-free “bib” will be placed over your chest and abdomen by your dentist to protect your organs from unnecessary radiation exposure. In some cases, for example with thyroid conditions, a thyroid collar may also be used. Additionally, females of childbearing age may need to wear it in addition to the lead-free bib.
Pregnancy is an exception to the rule. Women expecting a new addition to the family or believing they may be pregnant should avoid all types of X-rays. If you believe you’re pregnant, inform your dentist because radiation is harmful to fetus development.
Preparing For Your Dental X-Ray: What You Need To Know
Brushing your teeth ahead of time is sufficient for a dental X-ray. Your only preparation ahead of time is to clean your teeth.
At the dentist, an X-ray machine will take pictures of your mouth while you wear a lead-free “bib” over your chest and lap. The machine’s positioning varies by dental office; some have a dedicated room for X-rays, while others do them in the same area as cleanings and other treatments.
Different Types Of X-Rays And What They Show
Discover the different types of X-Rays and what they can reveal about your health.
There are a few types of dental X-rays that show various views of your mouth. The most regular ones are intraoral X-rays, such as:
- Bitewing. Dentists use this strategy to identify possible cavities between teeth. To do so, you bite down on a special sheet of plastic that allows your dentist to measure the crowns of your teeth.
- Occlusal. When your jaw is closed, an X-ray is used to observe how your top and bottom teeth line up. It can also determine abnormalities in the mouth’s floor or palate.
- Dental Photography. This dental photography technique involves taking a single photo that includes all of your teeth.
- Panoramic. This X-ray machine rotates for a fuller image. Your dentist may order this type of X-ray to check your wisdom teeth, plan for an implanted dental device, or investigate jaw problems.
- Periapical. The X-ray machine is used to capture an image of the tooth root or the part of the tooth that is concealed under the gum and in the bone.
When your dentist suspects there may be issues in regions outside of the gums and teeth, such as the jaw, Cone Beam CT is an option. They offer a broader perspective and can be used to identify problems.
A dental hygienist will be with you throughout your X-ray, walking you through each step. They may leave the room for a moment while the pictures are being taken. Remain still during this time so that clear photographs can be captured. We may use film holders (spacers) and if that’s the case, they’ll be moved around in your mouth to get different angles of your bite blocks. Cotton rolls will also likely be used at different points throughout the process to keep everything steady and prevent blurring.
What Your Dentist Sees After Taking X-Rays Of Your Teeth
Your dentist will go through your X-rays (either digital or film) after they’re finished. They’re looking for anything that appears wrong. If a dental hygienist cleans your teeth, the dentist may review the results of the X-rays after they’re done cleaning. The exception is if there are any significant issues discovered during the X-rays by the hygienist.
If your dentist identifies issues, such as cavities or tooth decay, they will review the different treatment possibilities with you. Keep up the excellent job if your dentist finds no concerns!
The Outlook: What Does The Future Hold?
Just like you brush and floss your teeth regularly, getting dental X-rays done regularly is essential to maintaining good oral health. Dental X-rays help identify potential problems with your teeth and gums so they can be treated early on before they become bigger issues. Your dentist will likely recommend doing dental X-rays every six months to a year. If you have any questions or concerns about getting dental X-rays done, don’t hesitate to ask us. We’ll be more than happy to chat with you and put your mind at ease.
A complete examination might be a relief, but it does not indicate you should cease getting X-rays. X-ray examinations may be done every one to two years, depending on your age, health, and insurance coverage. If you feel any discomfort or see other changes in your teeth, it’s important to keep your appointments and visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
When you need a dental X-ray in the Bloomfield area, there is no better place to go than True Dental Care. At True Dental Care of Bloomfield, we use the latest digital technology for all of our X-rays. This means that your X-rays will be taken quickly and with minimal radiation exposure. In addition, our digital X-rays are high-quality, so our dentists can get a clear view of your teeth and identify any problems. We also offer convenient online scheduling, so you can book your appointment at a time that works for you. And our friendly staff is always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Above all, our experienced and skilled team members use the latest technology to provide high-quality images that can help our dentists make an accurate diagnosis. Whether you are coming in for a routine checkup or you have a specific concern, we will be able to provide the care you need. We also offer emergency dental care and can provide same-day appointments. We also accept most major insurance plans, so you can rest assured that you will be covered. Schedule an appointment today and see why True Dental Care Of Bloomfield is the best option for your dental needs.
To Learn More About Dental X-Rays (Radiographs) Or To Book An Appointment Call Our Friendly Staff At 862-285-9066
FAQs:
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dental care that focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. This can include procedures such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers and crowns, bonding and reshaping, inlays/onlays/fillings, implants, orthodontics (Invisalign), gum contouring, and smile makeover packages.
We offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry services to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. From teeth whitening and porcelain veneers to full mouth reconstruction and implants, our experienced team is here to provide you with the highest quality care.
Yes! All our treatments are performed by highly trained professionals who use advanced technology and products that are safe for your enamel while delivering superior results. We also take extra precautions when it comes to sterilization so that all instruments used during treatment are completely clean before they come into contact with any patient’s mouth.
The length of time required for each procedure varies depending on what type it is, but generally speaking, most treatments will require multiple visits over several weeks or months in order for them to be completed successfully. Additionally, some may require follow-up appointments after completion in order to maintain their effectiveness over time.
The cost associated with each procedure will depend on its complexity as well as other factors such as insurance coverage or payment plans available through our office. However, we strive hard every day not only to meet but exceed expectations by providing personalized care tailored specifically towards each individual patient’s needs, so rest assured knowing that no matter what type of service is being sought out from us, it will always be done right!
Other Services
- General Dentist
- Pediatric Dentist
- Dental Cleaning
- Kids Oral Care
- Kid-Friendly Dentist
- Dental Exam
- Dental X-Rays
- Family Dentist
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Teeth Whitening
- Gum Disease
- Clear Braces
- Clear Aligners
- Tooth Extractions
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Sealants
- Root Canal Treatment
- Sedation Dentist
- Frenectomy / Tongue-Tie Treatment
