Why do I
need x-rays?
Radiographic or x-ray examinations provide your dentist with an
important tool that shows the condition of your teeth, the roots,
jaw placement and the overall composition of your facial bones.
X-rays
can help determine the presence or degree of gum disease, abscesses
and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and tumors.
X-rays can also show the exact location of impacted and
unerupted teeth. They
can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease
that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination.
Do all
patients have x-rays taken every 6 months?
No.
Your radiographic schedule is based on our assessment of your
individual needs, including whether you are a new patient or recall
patient, and adult or child.
In most cases, new patients require a full set of dental
x-rays to evaluate oral health status, including any underlying
signs of periodontal disease and for future comparison.
Recall patients may require x-rays to monitor their
periodontal condition.
What
kind of x-rays does my dentist usually take?
Typically, most dental patients have "periapical" or "bitewing"
radiographs taken. These require patients to hold or bite down on a
piece of plastic with an x-ray film in the centre.
Bitewing x-rays typically determine the presence of decay and
bone level in between the teeth, whole periapical x-rays show root
structure, cysts and abscesses
What is
a panoramic x-ray?
Just as
a panoramic photograph allows you to see a broad view, a panoramic
x-ray radiograph allows the dentist to see the entire structure of
your mouth in a single image.
Within one large film, panoramic x-rays reveal all of your
upper and lower teeth and parts of your jaw.
Why do I
need both types of x-rays?
What is
apparent through one type of x-ray is not visible on another.
The panoramic x-ray will give a general and comprehensive
view of your entire mouth on a single film, which a periapical or
bitewing x-ray cannot show.
On the other hand, a periapical or bitewing x-rays show a
highly detailed image of a smaller area, which makes it easier to
see decay or cavities between your teeth. X-rays are not prescribed
indiscriminately. Your dentist has a need for the different
information that each radiograph can provide to formulate a
diagnosis
Should I
be concerned about exposure to radiation?
All
health care providers are sensitive to patients concerns about
exposure to radiation.
Your Dentist has been trained to prescribe radiographs when
they are appropriate and to tailor radiographic schedules to each
patient's individual needs.
By using state-of-the-art technology and by staying
knowledgeable about recent advances your dentist knows which
techniques, procedures and x-ray films can minimize your exposure to
radiation.
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