Schenectady, NY Dentist Discusses Dental X-Rays

Dental x-rays are a safe diagnostic procedure that uses low doses of radiation. If you are curious about x-rays and the safety of your mouth, let’s take a closer look at this common practice.

 

Why Dental X-Rays?

 

Dental x-rays are important to aid the dentist is accurate diagnostics of the mouth. It shows things that would’ve been otherwise invisible to the eye. X-rays help the dentist to see:

 

• Decaying areas

• Bone loss

• Tumors

• Abscesses

• Root canal changes    

 

Without the help of an x-ray, many of these things would go undiagnosed. 

 

Children and X-Rays

 

Children are more sensitive when it comes to radiation, so it is common for parents to be concerned. The amount of radiation in a dental x-ray is minimal and still safe for children. In pediatric patients, the dentist uses x-rays to see:

 

• The size of the mouth

• Development of the wisdom teeth

• If the primary teeth are properly loosening for permanent teeth to erupt

• Any sign of gum disease or tooth decay

 

Children should visit the dentist regularly so the mouth can be monitored as it changes and grows.

 

Pregnancy and X-Rays

 

It is best to avoid x-rays while pregnant. While the amount of radiation is minimal, you don’t want to expose the fetus unnecessarily. There are times that x-rays must be performed. Thankfully, the dentist does have precautions such as a leaded apron to help keep your baby safe.

 

Only When Necessary

 

To minimize radiation exposure, it is best only to have dental x-rays performed when necessary. There is no set schedule and your dentist knows when an x-ray is crucial. The dentist also considers other factors when determining if you need an x-ray. These include:

 

• Dental development stage

• Age

• Oral health history

• Risk factors for conditions

• Symptoms

 

If you’ve recently had x-rays from another dentist, you’ll want to take them to your appointment with a new dentist. This will further minimize your radiation exposure and keep you from having further x-rays.

While dental x-rays are safe, it is always wise to protect yourself from unnecessary treatments and diagnostics. Your dentist is always looking out for your best interests when deciding if you need x-rays.