Digital X-rays provide immediate, high-resolution images, allowing for quick diagnosis and effective communication of findings. Just as brushing and flossing are vital for maintaining oral health, regular dental X-rays play an essential role in comprehensive dental care. 

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Benefits of X-Rays

X-rays, or radiographs, are crucial diagnostic and preventive tools that help us identify hidden oral health issues. For adults, dental X-rays can reveal:

• Decay: Particularly between teeth and beneath existing fillings

• Bone Loss: Assessing jawbone health

• Infection: Changes in bone or root canals due to infection

• Dental Preparation: Evaluating the condition and position of teeth for implants, braces, dentures, or other procedures

• Abscesses: Infections at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth

• Cysts and Tumors: Detection of various growths

 

For children, X-rays can provide insights into:

• Developing Decay: Early identification of cavities

• Space for Incoming Teeth: Ensuring there’s adequate room for all teeth

• Wisdom Teeth: Monitoring their development

• Impacted Teeth: Identifying teeth that are unable to emerge

• Missing Teeth: Checking for absent teeth

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X-Ray Frequency

The frequency of X-ray exams is tailored to each patient’s individual needs. We assess your dental history, conduct a thorough oral examination, and determine if X-rays are necessary. For new patients, we typically start with a panoramic X-ray and four bitewings to evaluate hidden areas and monitor changes over time. If you’ve had recent X-rays at another dental office, we can request those records.

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In general, we recommend updating bitewings at least every two years. The decision on how often to take X-rays is based on various factors, including age, risk for dental disease, dental hygiene, history of decay, gum disease, and the condition of any previous dental work.

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Maintaining your oral health is a team effort, and regular dental X-rays are a key part of that process! If you have any questions about X-rays or their necessity, feel free to contact us.