What is a dental x-ray and when might your dentist use them?

As a dentist Mackay, we understand that dental X-rays can be a source of anxiety for our patients. We want to reassure you that X-rays are an essential tool that allows us to diagnose dental problems and provide the best possible treatment for your oral health.

What is a dental x-ray?

X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that has a higher frequency and shorter wavelength than visible light. They were discovered by German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895 and were initially used for medical imaging soon after.

X-rays are used in the medical field to create images of the inside of the body, including the teeth and bones. When X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed by different tissues to varying degrees. Dense tissues, such as bones, absorb more X-rays and appear white on the resulting image, while less dense tissues, such as muscles, appear darker.

Dental X-rays specifically are used to create images of the teeth and surrounding bone structure. They are typically used to diagnose dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, impacted teeth, and bone loss. Dental X-rays may be taken using traditional film X-rays or digital X-rays, which use sensors to capture the images.

Why are dental x-rays necessary?

Dental X-rays are essential for diagnosing dental problems that may not be visible during a routine dental exam. They allow us to see cavities, impacted teeth, bone loss, and other dental issues that can affect your oral health.

X-rays are also necessary for developing treatment plans. For example, if you are considering dental implants or orthodontic treatment, X-rays are necessary to determine if your teeth and jaw are healthy enough for the procedure.

Do dental x-rays use radiation?

With Dental X-rays from your dentist Mackay, the amount of radiation used is minimal. We take every precaution to ensure that our patients are exposed to the lowest amount of radiation possible. We use lead aprons and collars to protect the body from radiation, and we only take X-rays when necessary.

At Northern Beaches Dental, we use digital X-rays, which require less radiation than traditional film X-rays. Digital X-rays also provide a more detailed image, making it easier to diagnose dental problems.

How often should you get dental x-rays?

The frequency of dental X-rays will depend on your individual oral health needs. We may recommend an X-ray every six months for patients who are at high risk for dental problems, such as those with a history of gum disease or frequent cavities. For patients with healthy teeth and gums, X-rays may be recommended every 12-24 months.

Dental X-rays are an essential tool used by your dentist Mackay that allows us to diagnose dental problems and provide the best possible treatment for your oral health. At Northern Beaches Dental in Mackay, we take every precaution to ensure that our patients are comfortable during the X-ray process. If you have any concerns about dental X-rays, please don’t hesitate to talk to one of our experienced dental professionals.

All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.