Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

The safety of dental x-rays is one of the most debated subjects in the field of dentistry. As far as the safety of x-rays is concerned, it’s usually the amount of radiation that our bodies are exposed to, but dental X-rays have very low doses of radiation. If you’re worried about whether you need dental x-rays, let us shed light into what dental x-rays involve, how they’re best handled and why they’re performed.

Given below are the different types of dental X-Rays:

• Bitewing Radiograph, which shows several lower and upper teeth from one side of the mouth on one small image.

• Periapical Radiograph, which shows several teeth and their roots and the jawbone.

• Complete Series is a combination of bitewing and periapical radiographs that shows all the roots, teeth and related areas of the jaws.

• Panoramic Radiograph shows all the upper and lower teeth, large portions of the jaws and other structures on one large image.

• Digital Radiograph, in which all of these types of images can be obtained digitally.

Who Needs Dental X-Rays

Dental x-rays are used diagnostically to help dentists see issues such as:

• Areas of decay

• Bone loss and gum disease

• Abscesses, which are infections between the tooth and gum

• Tumors

• Changes in the root canal

Dental X-Rays During Pregnancy

Pregnant women are mostly advised to avoid X-Rays because it might affect the health of the developing fetus. This is why it’s important to inform your dentist if you are or may be pregnant when you arrive for your appointment. However, if you have a dental emergency or are in the middle of a dental treatment plan, you can discuss the issue with your dentist and determine the best way to proceed.

Determining Whether X-Rays are Necessary

Factors that your dentist will consider include:

• Age

• Stage of dental development

• History of oral health

• Risk factors for various conditions

• Presenting symptoms

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DENTAL EXAMS AND CLEANINGS

Preventing Problems Before They Start

The health of your teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of your entire body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting your dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful.

By routinely seeing your dentist for exams and cleanings, you can:

• Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath

• Save money by avoiding costly and extensive dental procedures

• Keep your teeth white by reducing staining from food and drinks

• Shorten the time spent in your dentist's office

• Have a smile that will last a lifetime

The Exam

During your exam, Dr Val Tsar will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. Your dentist may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Whether these X-rays are traditional or digital, the images provided will help your dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.

Professional Cleanings

Your dental hygienist will begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to determine if you have any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring.

Next, your hygienist will carefully clean your teeth with a variety of tools to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. Then your hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing compound, and apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren't painful, but if you have any anxiety about your dental exam, be sure to let your hygienist know. They may offer several sedation options to ensure your comfort. If your dentist or hygienist finds tooth decay or gum disease, they will talk to you about changing your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments. If your teeth and gums appear to be healthy, your dentist will probably recommend that you continue your brushing and flossing routine as usual.