Why Radiology is Essential for Oral Health

If you’ve ever visited a dentist, a dental X-ray has been taken on at least one occasion. Dentists use this form of radiology to help view what the human eye cannot see, giving them information to identify and diagnose oral problems before they worsen. X-rays help dentists identify a variety of oral conditions, including bone loss, impacted teeth, jawbone abnormalities, cysts, and other concerns.

Dentists can use the findings from an X-ray to develop a treatment plan for the patient and get them back on the road to a beautiful, healthy smile.

The Benefits of Radiology in Oral Health

Radiology gives dentists extra technology to keep their patients’ oral health in pristine condition.

Some of the many benefits of radiology in the dentist’s office:

More Accurate Diagnosis: Dentists take X-rays so they can identify abnormalities and precisely diagnose conditions. An accurate diagnosis ensures effective treatments for the patient.
Detecting Dental Issues Earlier: Early detection is paramount is good oral health. X-rays give dentists a headstart to intervene before dental issues become problematic. That’s a big reason to smile.
Bone Health Assessments: Dentists monitor bone health using X-rays. These assessments are especially important for people battling gum disease and other dental diseases.
Track Treatment Progress: Dentists want to see that treatments are correcting dental issues. Dental X-rays give them insight into the effectiveness of treatments at various intervals of time.

When Will Your Dentist Take X-Rays?

I visited New York cosmetic dentist Dr. Davidowitz, who explained important information about dental X-rays and their frequency.

Numerous factors determine how often a patient needs dental X-rays. The frequency can and generally varies from one patient to another.

The biggest factors influencing the frequency X-rays are needed include:

New Patients: New patients are subject to tons of paperwork, but that’s not all. Expect dental X-rays at the first visit. Dentists take X-rays for new patients to determine their overall oral health condition. It could detect issues that you didn’t know existed.
Annual Check-Ups: Dentists recommend X-rays once every year or two for patients with healthy mouths and teeth.
Children: Children generally require X-rays more frequently than adults. Dentists may take X-rays during every visit, but again, this varies based on oral health.
High-Risk Patients: If you have a history of oral health problems, dentists may take X-rays more frequently to monitor activities, gum disease, and other conditions.

Types of Dental X-Rays

Did you know dentists use several types of dental x-rays? Each type of x-ray serves a different purpose. The most common types of dental x-rays are:

Bitewing X-Ray: The most commonly used type of X-ray is known as the Bitewing. Dentists use this X-ray to detect cavities between the teeth that might go unnoticed. The X-ray can also assist dentists in detecting the condition of crowns, fillings, and other restorations. To complete this X-ray, you’ll bite down on a special film while the machine captures an image of your teeth.
Panoramic X-ray: The panoramic X-ray allows a dentist to view the entire mouth, including the teeth, jaws, and sinuses. This image is taken when patients need extractions, braces, or full-mouth dental implant restoration.
Periapical X-ray: This X-ray provides a detailed image of an entire tooth, from the crow to the root. It is used if your dentist suspects infections, bone loss, abscesses, or similar issues. It is also common before root canal therapy.
Cone Beam CT Scan: This special X-ray uses 3D imaging to examine the teeth, bone structure, and soft tissues. It is used only in complex dental situations, particularly for dental implant planning, jaw misalignment, or tumors.
Occlusal X-ray: An X-ray designed to capture the upper and lower teeth together, the occlusal is used to assess tooth condition, detect cysts, detect jawbone fractures, and determine the development of teeth.

Are Dental X-rays Safe?

Yes, dental X-rays are safe when performed by a trained professional. Dental X-rays require little radiation. The amount of radiation used is well below levels that would pose a risk to patients. Dentists take many precautions to further safeguard themselves, staff, and patients, like:

Lead aprons and thyroid shields
Targeted use
Taken on an as-needed basis

Dental X-rays have been part of the oral health world for generations. Rest assured this procedure is safe and beneficial in your quest for beautiful and healthy teeth.

Dental Radiology FAQ

Does insurance cover the cost of dental X-rays? Most insurance plans cover the costs of dental X-rays, however, it is important to check your policy before an appointment to avoid getting stuck with a bill if the service isn’t covered.
Should I avoid dental X-rays if I am pregnant? It is best to speak to your dentist about the safety of dental X-rays during pregnancy. Inform your dentist and his staff about your pregnancy before the procedure.
Are dental X-rays harmful? While dental X-rays do transmit a small amount of radiation, it is not enough to cause harm to people. Dentists and medical professionals worldwide use X-rays and believe the procedure is safe and beneficial to their patients.
How can I prepare for a dental X-ray? No preparation is necessary before a dental X-ray. Some dentists may have special instructions they prefer their patients follow. Your dentist will give those instructions when scheduling your X-ray visit.
Can dental X-rays reveal oral cancer? Dental X-rays typically do not reveal oral cancer but can reveal signs that suggest cancer, such as sores on the inside of the mouth.

The Bottom Line

Radiology is essential in oral health care. Dentists use it to improve their patients oral health and help them avoid problematic conditions, up to and including tooth extractions/tooth loss. Dentists worldwide use X-rays daily, getting insight that allows them to diagnose and treat oral health conditions earlier and more effectively. Never fear dental radiology or X-rays. The procedure works favorably to protect your beautiful smile for a lifetime.