If you have visited a dentist ever you must have come across dental x-rays. The dental x-rays are used by the dentists to diagnose any underlying diseases in the teeth and its surrounding tissues that is invisible to the naked eye. A dental disease if identified in the early stage can save further serious potential problems, discomfort and help save a lot of money.
Here we have come up with the four important things about dental x rays that you should be aware of. Read on!
1.What are basically dental x-rays?
Like any other x ray, dental x-rays are 2D images of your bones and tooth anatomy below the gum surface and enamel. Any infection or outgrowth forming in this region in the tooth can be identified by a dental x-ray. There are mainly two types of dental x-ray- digital and film. Another category in which the dental x-rays can be categorized is the intraoral and extraoral x-rays. In the former process the x-ray image is taken from inside the mouth and in the latter process the image is taken outside the mouth, particularly the jaw areas.
2.What oral issues can a dental x-ray detect?
If your dentist can identify the underlying cause of your toothache or bleeding gums, then your disease may not be that serious. But, when your dentist recommends you for an x-ray, always take it seriously as your dentist’s wants to be sure that there is no serious major concern. Well, to be more precise a dental x-ray can detect the following oral health issues.
In adults
The teeth of children and adults are different. In adults dental x-ray can detect the following:
- Small areas of decay between teeth
- Formation of pockets between two teeth or teeth and gums
- Any underlying gum disease
- Bone loss
- Identifying any kind of decay beneath the filling
- Formation of abscess in the gums or root of the tooth
- Any abnormal developments within such as tumours or cysts
In Children
- To detect signs of decay
- To see if there is space in the mouth for the new incoming teeth
- Detect any development of a wisdom teeth and how far it can impact the neighbouring teet
3.How often is dental x-ray needed?
This entirely depends on your medical history. If you are a new patient, your dentist may ask you to get a dental x-ray done to understand your dental condition. Further, if you are a regular visitor, your dentist will only ask to to undergo x-ray and face radiation, only if it’s an emergency. Some people require to get an x-ray done every 6 months and some in a couple of years.
4.Is the radiation harmful?
Many people get conscious when they hear the word x-ray as it exposes a person to radiation. But, dental x-rays emit the least amount of radiation. It is around 0.005mSv.
Talk to your dentist!
If you are experiencing any pain in your teeth or have noticed bleeding gum, talk to your dentist and clear your queries. If required your dentist will suggest a dental x-ray and you can get one without the fear of radiation or any kind of anxiety.