If you visit your dentist on a regular basis, you have probably recently had dental x-rays taken. Although it is an essential diagnostic tool for the dentist and his team, many patients wonder about their necessity.
At Dents Mon Quartier, we are pleased to have all the necessary equipment to perform digital X-rays. Read on to learn more about the types of x-rays we can perform and their usefulness for your healthcare team!
X-rays: essential for a precise diagnosis
Unfortunately, many diseases and oral pathologies can be almost impossible to detect to the naked eye. Although your dentist is qualified to diagnose the health of your mouth, he or she needs to use different tools and technologies to do it more accurately. Among them are X-rays.
These provide accurate images of the teeth, their roots and the various anatomical structures of your teeth and jaws. They are useful for detecting different problems that would otherwise go unnoticed. The most common are:
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Cavities that develop in the root of the tooth and between teeth;
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Periodontal diseases that affect the tissues that support our teeth;
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Impacted or semi-impacted wisdom teeth (ie, those that are still under the gum or have only partially erupted);
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Bone loss in the jaws;
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The presence of a cyst, abscess or abnormal lesions.
X-rays are also essential in younger patients to assess the development of their teeth and jaws. The dentist will be able to observe the orientation of the teeth, the alignment of the jaws as well as the presence or congenital absence of teeth. Similarly, X-rays are needed in the planning of orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages.
What are the types of dental x-rays?
Panoramic x-rays: they provide a complete picture of the entire dentition, jaws, joints, nerves, etc. They are useful for evaluating the development of teeth and jaws, as well as for planning different types of treatments.
Interproximal X-rays: it is thanks to this type of X-ray that your dentist can observe the surfaces between the teeth, to detect problems such as cavities, gum problems, broken fillings, etc.
Periapical radiographs: they allow to obtain precise images of the teeth and all of their roots. They are used to plan endodontic treatments or to evaluate the integration of implants to the jawbone.
Cephalometric X-rays: This type of X-ray provides a profile image of the skull and jaws. They are mainly used to observe bone structures, for example when planning an orthodontic treatment.
How often should X-rays be performed?
This depends on the oral condition of each patient and their risk of suffering from different pathologies. For example, a patient who often has dental caries or who has already had a periodontal disease will need closer monitoring, including x-rays on an annual basis. In contrast, a patient who regularly visits their dentist and has not had any problems for several years will not need to have X-rays done as frequently.
It's up to your dentist to determine how often X-rays will be needed depending on your condition. If your dentist recommends them to you, do not hesitate to question him to know how these will help him in his diagnosis.
Are x-rays safe?
This is undoubtedly the most common question for our patients who are worried about the radiation level emitted during dental x-rays. It should be noted that this level is very low and that, for optimal protection, you always wear a protective apron specially designed to limit your exposure. By way of comparison, X-rays emit a radiation level that is several times lower than that to which one exposes oneself while traveling by plane. Does it prevent you from traveling by plane? In addition, many practices now use digital X-rays, which produce a significantly lower radiation rate than traditional x-rays.
If you have more questions about dental x-rays, the Dents Mon Quartier team will be happy to answer them. During your next appointment, do not hesitate to ask us if we recommend taking x-rays!
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D