Your first visit at our dental office will start with the Comprehensive Exam and the full set of digital X-rays. For years, dental x-rays have been used to diagnose oral health complications and detect decaying or damaged teeth. X-rays provide a unique view of the mouth that isn’t possible with a visual exam alone. When x-rays are taken, a small amount of electromagnetic radiation is used to make teeth and jaw bone highly visible on film or on a screen. Nearly all new dental patients must have a Full Mouth Series of X-rays taken, although you may instead request that your most recent x-rays be transferred to us from your previous dental provider. By comparing your x-rays with your dentition during the full mouth examination and dental history, Dr. Jones can recommend the effective treatment and the plan for preventative care.
Did you know:
That digital dental x-rays deliver very low levels of radiation and are considered completely safe? In fact, if necessary, x-rays even can be taken during pregnancy and while breastfeeding as long as a leaded apron and collar are used to protect your body from exposure. If you are pregnant or think you may be, please contact your primary care physician to get approval for the X-rays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get dental x-rays?
Yes. Dental x-rays can identify not only the tooth decay, but also the tooth infection beneath the visible surface of the tooth during an examination. Furthermore, x-rays provide a reference point for the progression of decay in your mouth over time. You should have x-rays taken on a regular basis, but especially if you are experiencing a toothache or are planning to undergo a dental procedure, such as a crown restoration, root canal or extraction.
What should I expect when I get dental x-rays?
Getting full mouth series of dental x-rays can take several minutes. An X-ray holder with the digital sensor is placed into the mouth, which you will be asked to bite down on. Most patients find that dental x-rays are completely painless and do not inflict any level of discomfort. In some cases, we can recommend not only intraoral x-rays, but also the extra-oral x-rays that snap images of the face, jaw and skull. Extra-oral x-rays are typically used to identify impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth and the TMJ problems.
What happens after my dentist has taken x-rays?
Your x-rays will be digitally saved in your chart. In the future, we may take additional dental x-rays. According to The American Dental Association the Full Mouth Series of X-ray should be taken every 3-5 years and the Bitewing X-rays every 6-18 months to monitor the health of your teeth and gums. If you are at high risk for dental caries or gum disease, Dr. Jones may recommend taking x-rays more frequently.
