Dental radiographs (X-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam.  We use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.  Without X-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Dental X-rays may reveal:

• Abscesses or cysts.
• Bone loss.
• Bone damage from tooth infection
• Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
• Decay between the teeth or below fillings.
• Developmental defects.
• Poor tooth and root positions.
• The position of unerupted teeth .

Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and help prevent more serious health problems. X-ray images help to detect damage and disease not visible during a regular dental exam.

Are dental X-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment.  Dental x-ray exams require very low levels of radiation exposure, which makes the risk of potentially harmful effects very small. A set of bitewing x-ray images creates only a small fraction of the radiation you are exposed to when flying on an airplane. We take necessary precautions to limit our patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental X-rays.  These precautions include limiting the size of the x-ray beam to the size of the sensor being used and using a leaded apron and thyroid shield that x-rays cannot pass through.

We take digital x-ray images at Family Laser Dental Center. There are many benefits to using digital dental x-rays:

• When the digital x-ray image is exposed, it can be viewed right away--no waiting for x-ray film to be exposed.
• Digital x-ray images can be enlarged for easy viewing
• Digital x-rays can be forwarded electronically or copied and printed
• Digital x-rays are environmentally friendly. They eliminate the need for film and film processing chemicals

How often should dental X-rays be taken?

The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.  Bitewing x-rays are  recommended once yearly. Other necessary x-rays  are based on your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.

A full mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients.  A full series is usually good for five years.