When a dentist uses manual tools or examines a patient’s mouth with the naked eye, they have limited visibility of the harder-to-reach areas of the teeth. This is where a dental x-ray comes in. At a single glance, a dentist can spot potential abnormalities and identify the areas that require treatment.
Generally, your dentist will want an updated x-ray that shows whether any changes are being made in your mouth. At West Lakes Dentistry, we recommend updated x-rays based on a patient’s risk or recurring conditions that need to be monitored.
The following factors may affect how often you need an X-ray:
X-rays are considered safe for medical purposes with one exception: pregnant women should avoid all types of x-rays. Otherwise, x-rays are a crucial part of a comprehensive dental exam.
X-rays provide an overview of your mouth and are vital for confirming the presence of cavities, gum disease, and other problems. Dentists are able to detect diseases in their earliest state by finding areas with the most plaque buildup. Whether your dentist is diagnosing dental conditions or assessing your overall oral health, x-rays are an important part of providing comprehensive care for your teeth.
