If you go to the dentist regularly, chances are your dentist will recommend that you have x-rays done at least once each year as a part of your exam and dental cleaning routine. X-rays enable your dentist to glean valuable information about your jaw, teeth, and gums that cannot always be detected by the naked eye. So what exactly is your Monroe Township, NJ, dentist looking for when he or she takes dental x-rays?
Why dental x-rays are an important part of your dental cleaning and checkups
X-rays, which are also called “radiographs,” take pictures that enable your dentist to see parts of the mouth that are not visible. For example, a lot of tooth decay happens between teeth, and your dentist cannot see between your teeth in an exam, including:
- Decay
- Gum disease
- Infection
- Tooth cracks
- Bone loss
It’s particularly important for children to have regular dental x-rays. Decay that is overlooked in kids because it can’t be seen will negatively impact their future dental health.
How often should you have dental X-rays?
Your dentist will make a recommendation for you based on your specific oral health, but for most people, once a year is the general rule of thumb. It’s important to follow your dentist’s recommendation. Many dentists can attest to the fact that patients have presented with a big dental problem that could have been detected with an x-ray back when it was a small problem. When it comes to dentistry, the smaller the problem, the easier—and less expensive—it is to fix it!
Safety concerns with x-rays
The amount of radiation you are exposed to with a dental x-ray is minimal. And with new digital x-ray technology, the amounts of radiation are even lower than before. It is much more dangerous to let dental problems go undetected when a simple radiograph can find the problem before it gets serious.
Call our Monroe Township, NJ dental office
The best way to enjoy good oral health is to see your dentist regularly and follow his or her recommendations, including dental x-rays. If you are in the Monroe Township, NJ, area and would like more information on dental x-rays, or if you need to schedule a cleaning, please call us!
