Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are an essential, preventative, diagnostic tool that provide valuable information which is not visible during a regular dental examination. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without the benefit of X-rays, problem areas can go undetected.
Dental X-rays may reveal:
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Abscesses or cysts
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Bone loss
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Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
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Decay between the teeth
Missing or supernumerary teeth
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Developmental abnormalities
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Problematic tooth and root positions
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Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth.
How often should dental X-rays be taken?
The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s dental-health circumstances. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary X-rays based upon the review of your medical and dental history, a dental examination, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.
A full-mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing X-rays (X-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits, and are recommended once a year to detect new dental problems.
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