At a typical dental checkup, you expect your dentist to clean your teeth, examine your gums, and ask about your brushing habits. But once in a while, they’ll also recommend taking X-rays of your mouth—and you might wonder why.
Dental X-rays are an essential part of preventive dental care. While they might seem routine, they play a vital role in spotting problems that can’t be seen during a visual exam. Here’s why your dentist takes X-rays and how they contribute to your long-term oral health.
What Are Dental X-Rays?
Dental X-rays are images of your teeth, roots, jaw, and surrounding bone structures. Using a low level of radiation, these images allow your dentist to detect issues that may not be visible with the naked eye.
There are different types of dental X-rays, including bitewing, periapical, panoramic, and cone beam scans. Your dentist will choose the right type depending on what needs to be evaluated.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Important?
X-rays help dentists detect a wide range of dental concerns early, often before symptoms appear. This makes it easier to treat problems when they’re small and less expensive to fix. Here are a few things your dentist may be looking for:
- Cavities between teeth that can’t be seen during an exam
- Infections or abscesses at the root of a tooth
- Bone loss due to gum disease
- Impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth)
- Changes in jaw alignment or bite
- Developmental abnormalities in children or teens
How Often Do You Need Dental X-Rays?
Most patients receive dental X-rays once a year during their routine exam, but the frequency can vary based on your individual needs. If you have a history of cavities, gum disease, or other risk factors, your dentist may recommend them more often. Children and teens may also need more frequent X-rays as their teeth and jaws continue to develop.
On the other hand, if you have a healthy dental history and low risk of problems, you may not need X-rays every year.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Yes, dental X-rays are considered very safe. The amount of radiation used is extremely low, and modern digital X-rays use even less than traditional film versions. Dentists also take precautions, such as using lead aprons and minimizing exposure, to keep patients safe.
If you’re pregnant or have specific concerns, it’s always a good idea to let your dentist know, but in most cases, the benefits of early diagnosis outweigh the minimal risks.
Dental X-rays are a quick, painless, and powerful tool that helps your dentist keep your smile healthy. By catching problems early, they help you avoid pain, complex procedures, and higher costs down the line.
About the Practice
Dr. Nelson Howard, DDS, in Rancho Bernardo provides comprehensive, patient-centered dental care in a welcoming environment. Dr. Howard along with our skilled team emphasizes preventive care—including routine exams and X-rays—to ensure long-term oral health. Whether you’re due for a checkup or have specific dental concerns, the practice is here to help you maintain a strong, healthy smile.
Call us at (972) 723-3567 or request an appointment online.