The American Dental Association recommends routine checkups and cleanings with your dentist every 6 months to prevent common oral concerns, such as cavities, gum disease, and chronic bad breath.
But did you know many providers also take X-rays of your mouth at least once annually? If it’s been a while since your last standard appointment, you might be surprised to learn that imaging is required or question why it’s included in your visit. Continue reading to learn more about dental X-rays and how they can help protect your smile!
Why Are Dental X-rays Required?
It’s easy to assume that your teeth and gums must be perfectly healthy if you haven’t noticed obvious issues, like cavities in your enamel or bleeding when you brush and floss, which can indicate developing gum disease.
However, you can develop oral issues in places that are difficult or impossible to see at home, such as between your teeth, behind your molars, or below the gumline. It’s also important to monitor children’s smiles as they grow to help address certain issues, like dental or bite misalignments, before they worsen. Dental X-rays help identify potential problems, develop customized treatment plans, provide certain services, and monitor recovery after procedures.
What are the Types of Dental X-rays?
There are multiple types of dental X-rays, and not all are needed each year. Below is a more detailed outline of the types of images and when they might be necessary.
Bitewing
These are the standard images taken for routine prevention and are usually required once or twice annually. These are typically taken by placing a small film or sensor between the teeth that patients bite down on to hold it in place.
The results can be used to identify cavities between the teeth, measure jawbone density, or pinpoint periodontal problems, such as gum disease.
Periapical
These X-rays are usually taken as needed to provide a more detailed view of the inside of a specific tooth from its root tip to its crown. This allows dentists to diagnose infections, abscesses, or bone loss and plan and implement treatment. It can also help assess the extent of dental damage, such as a chip or crack, and evaluate the success of certain procedures, such as root canals.
Panoramic
These advanced images give your provider a broader view of your mouth, including the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. This is helpful for identifying abnormalities or misalignments to assist with orthodontic treatments or other complex services. These may only be taken every 3 to 5 years unless there’s an immediate concern that needs to be addressed.
If you have additional questions about dental X-rays or the technology your dentist uses, contact their office directly to learn more.
About the Practice
Patients at D’Andrea and Pantera Family & Cosmetic Dentistry benefit from a team of dentists who are eager to help them build and maintain the happiest, healthiest versions of their smiles. Dr. D’Andrea, Dr. Pantera, and Dr. Ritchie collaborate to provide a full menu of services using state-of-the-art technology, including all-digital X-rays, to meet your or your child’s needs conveniently under one roof. You can request a routine preventive appointment on the website or call (203) 288-0951.
