A General Dentistry Explains the Uses for X-rays

A General Dentistry Explains the Uses for X-rays from Tinley Park Smiles & Implant Dentistry in Tinley Park, ILX-rays are used not only in medical offices but in general dentistry offices as well. This type of assessment is often performed at least once a year at dental checkups, and more often for some patients. While it may seem like a simple step at your biannual appointment, it can be critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Important uses of dental X-rays

Dental professionals can use a variety of methods to detect and diagnose dental issues:

  • Visual examinations
  • Discussion of symptoms
  • Assessment of affected tissues with dental tools

However, some problems may not be detectable by the naked eye. Others do not demonstrate symptoms above the surface until they have progressed and become serious. X-rays help dentists get a good look at the underlying tissues to properly monitor dental health.

Checking for proper growth and development

X-rays help dentists see that a child's teeth and bones are growing as expected. When abnormalities are detected, dentists can begin treatments at an early age to help prevent speech and digestive issues, as well as facial deformities.

Monitoring existing conditions

People with minor decay, gum disease, or bone loss may receive X-rays more often to monitor these conditions. In some situations, treatment may not be necessary unless the issues show signs of progressing.

Detecting serious dental problems early

While oral cancer is not highly common, it often goes undetected until troublesome symptoms arise. This can limit treatment options or lead to a less favorable outcome for the patient. X-rays can help dentists see the signs of serious issues long before symptoms arise, including tumors and growths, bone deterioration, and some types of infection and decay.

Recognition of X-ray radiation and safety

X-rays expose patients to minor amounts of radiation to obtain detailed images below the surface. While it is important to limit radiation exposure whenever possible, the amount received during a dental X-ray is so small and infrequent that it is not a concern for most normal, healthy patients. In fact, you can be exposed to more radiation when flying in an airplane or from eating certain foods on a regular basis. Refusing to get an X-ray could be more harmful long-term for many people.

General dentistry X-rays are used for patients of all ages, including young children. However, most dentists limit their use in those who are low-risk for certain complications, especially kids. They may be necessary more often for those who have a history of decay or need monitoring for dental issues. In general, dental X-rays are not performed on pregnant women or those who are undergoing certain types of medical treatment.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry in Tinley Park, IL

Conclusion

For most patients, X-days are completely safe and can help dentists detect, diagnose, and treat serious oral health issues. While radiation exposure does occur, the amount is so minimal that the risks from refusing them are usually far greater than the risks for over-exposure. It is important to talk with a dentist about your individual situation to determine how often you should receive general dentistry X-rays.

Request an appointment or call Tinley Park Smiles & Implant Dentistry at 708-675-7427 for an appointment in our Tinley Park office.

Related Posts

Can A General Dentist Fix A Broken Tooth?

A broken tooth can be distressing, especially if you do not know where to turn when it happens. However, if a broken tooth is not an emergency, your general dentist can fix it in several ways. These professionals are skilled in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, which are important for repairing teeth.If the affected area has…

How Often To Schedule A General Dentistry Appointment

General dentistry aims to keep your teeth and gums healthy by educating you about proper oral hygiene and performing preventative treatments that protect against issues like gum disease and tooth decay. The American Dental Association recommends going to the dentist at least two times per year. These visits are used to evaluate the condition of…

The Role Of A General Dentist In Maintaining Oral Health

Besides ourselves, one other person plays a highly important role in maintaining our oral health, our general dentist. You see, the dentist is responsible for much of the work that goes into our mouths, and without them, most of us would be at a loss as to what to do to protect our teeth, tongue,…