Dental X-rays (radiographs) are images of your teeth that are used by your dentist to assess your oral health. These X-rays, which employ low levels of radiation, are used to acquire images of the interior of your teeth and gums. This can assist your dentist in identifying issues such as cavities, dental decay, and impacted teeth.
Dental X-rays may appear to be complicated, but they are actually fairly common equipment that is just as vital as regular tooth cleanings.
How often should a child have his or her teeth x-rayed?
Because each child is unique, the need for baby teeth x-rays varies as well. X-rays are recommended only after a child’s medical and dental histories have been read and a clinical examination has been completed, and only when they are likely to offer details that visual exams alone cannot provide.
On average, children require more x-rays than adults. Their mouths rapidly shift and grow. They have a higher risk of dental decay than adults. For children with a high risk of tooth decay, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends x-ray of baby teeth every six months to detect cavities emerging between teeth. Children who have a low risk of tooth decay require fewer x-ray scans.
Why Are Baby Teeth X-Rays Necessary?
You may believe that getting your child’s infant teeth x-rayed is pointless, but this is not the case. The condition of your child’s baby teeth can influence the condition of their permanent teeth in the future. Allowing your child’s dentist to take baby tooth x-rays provides them with the information they need to address, improve, and preserve your child’s oral health. Dentists can use dental x-rays for children to:
- Keep an eye on the progress of the permanent teeth that will be sprouting soon.
- If necessary, get braces or other orthodontic therapy.
- Examine how many teeth are still inside the gums, their position, and their size.
- Determine the presence or absence of teeth before they emerge.
- Diagnose cavities, cracks, and other dental abnormalities that can only be noticed through an x-ray.
- Determine the severity and progression of any dental or tooth damage.
- Determine the presence of any teeth or mouth infections or bone problems.
Getting Ready for Dental X-Rays
No specific preparation is required for dental X-rays. The only thing you’ll want to do before your visit is brushed your teeth. This provides a more sanitary environment for people who work within your mouth. X-rays are typically taken before to cleanings.
You’ll sit in a chair with a lead vest across your chest and lap at the dentist’s office. The X-ray machine is placed next to your head to capture photos of your mouth. Some dental practices keep X-rays in a separate area, while others keep them in the same room as cleanings and other operations.
What are the hazards associated with dental x-rays?
Pediatric dentists take special steps to avoid exposing their patients to high amounts of radiation. Because of modern safeguards, the amount of radiation received during a dental x-ray examination is extremely minimal. In truth, tooth x-rays pose a much lesser risk than undiagnosed and untreated dental issues.
What safeguards are in place to protect my child from x-rays?
Today’s technology reduces extraneous x-rays and restricts the x-ray beam to the region of interest. To protect the safety of the youngsters getting treatment, they will be given a lead apron to wear, which will further decrease the effects of stray radiation. Because to high-speed film, digital x-rays, and appropriate shielding, the youngster will be exposed to the least amount of radiation feasible.
Following dental X-rays
When the photos are ready — instantaneously in the case of digital X-rays — your dentist will study them and look for any anomalies. If a dental hygienist is cleaning your teeth, the dentist may go over the X-ray results with you when the cleaning is completed. The hygienist may make an exemption if major concerns are discovered during the X-rays.
If your dentist discovers any issues, such as cavities or tooth rot, they will discuss your treatment options with you. Keep up the good work if your dentist detects no problems! If you’re having a hard time finding a reliable one though, searching phrases like “dentist near me lumberton” is one easy way to get in touch with one.
