Taking care of your teeth goes beyond just brushing and flossing. Sometimes, dental problems hide beneath the surface, making them hard to detect with the naked eye. This is where dental X-rays come in. They help dentists see what’s happening inside your teeth, gums, and jawbone.
Many people feel anxious about getting X-rays, wondering if they are safe or necessary. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know, including how often you should get them, their safety, costs, and the best place to get dental X-rays in Porwal Road.
What Are Dental X-Rays?
Dental X-rays, also called radiographs, are images of your teeth and jaw taken using low radiation. These images help dentists check for cavities, infections, bone loss, and other oral health issues that might not be visible during a routine checkup.
Types of Dental X-Rays
There are different types of dental X-rays, depending on what needs to be examined:
- Bitewing X-rays – Used to check for cavities between teeth.
- Periapical X-rays – Show the entire tooth, including the root and surrounding bone.
- Panoramic X-rays – Capture a full view of the mouth, including teeth, jaw, and sinuses.
- Occlusal X-rays – Help in assessing tooth development and alignment.
- CBCT (Cone Beam CT) Scans – Provide a 3D image of teeth and jaw, often used for dental implants and orthodontics.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?
Dental X-rays help in:
- Finding cavities before they become painful.
- Identifying infections or abscesses.
- Checking for gum disease and bone loss.
- Examining wisdom teeth and their growth.
- Planning treatments like braces or dental implants.
By detecting problems early, X-rays can help avoid bigger dental issues and costly treatments.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Many people worry about radiation exposure from X-rays, but the amount used in dental imaging is extremely low. The radiation from a single X-ray is less than what you are exposed to in daily activities like flying on an airplane.
To ensure safety:
- Modern digital X-rays use much lower radiation compared to traditional film X-rays.
- A lead apron and thyroid collar are provided to reduce exposure.
- X-rays are taken only when necessary, based on your dental condition.
For pregnant women, it is usually recommended to avoid X-rays unless absolutely needed. Always inform your dentist if you are pregnant.
How Often Should You Get Dental X-Rays?
The frequency of X-rays depends on your oral health, age, and risk factors. Here’s a general guideline:
- Children & Teenagers – Every 6 to 12 months to monitor tooth development and cavities.
- Adults with good oral health – Every 1-2 years.
- Adults with dental issues – More frequent X-rays may be required.
- People with gum disease – X-rays help track bone loss and may be needed every 6-12 months.
Your dentist will decide how often you need them based on your individual condition.
Best Place to Get Dental X-Rays in Porwal Road
If you’re looking for a trusted clinic for dental X-rays, Dr. Mahesh S. Mali at Nextcare Dental Clinic is a great choice in Porwal Road. The clinic offers a comfortable environment and ensures patient safety while performing X-rays.
FAQs About Dental X-Rays
1. Are dental X-rays safe during pregnancy?
Dental X-rays should be avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. If needed, special precautions are taken to minimize exposure.
2. What are the side effects of dental X-rays?
There are no known harmful side effects from dental X-rays when done occasionally. If X-rays are taken frequently, your dentist will use protective measures to ensure safety.
3. Do dental X-rays cause cancer?
The radiation used in dental X-rays is extremely low and does not pose a significant risk. The exposure is much less than what we receive from natural sources like the sun.
Dental X-rays play an important role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. They help detect problems early, making treatments easier and less expensive. If you haven’t had a dental X-ray in a while or are experiencing discomfort, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment.
If you need dental X-rays or a check-up, visit Dr. Mahesh S. Mali at Nextcare Dental Clinic on Porwal Road. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward better oral health!
