Why are dental x-rays necessary? - South Austin Dentist

Why are dental x-rays necessary?

Digital X-Rays Goehring Dental

Your dentist will take routine X-rays of the teeth and jaw, so they can see an image showing the inside of the teeth and surrounding bone.

What do dental x-rays detect?

X-rays can be used to:

  • Identify decay occurring beneath an existing filling
  • Reveal bone loss that accompanies gum disease
  • Assist in the preparation of tooth implants, braces, dentures or other dental procedures

How often should someone have an X-ray?

Some people may need X-rays as often as every six months; others with no recent dental or gum disease and who visit their dentist regularly may get a few check up x-rays annually.

Patients who are new to a dental practice will probably have X-rays taken to check the state of teeth, any fillings or other dental work and other hidden problems.

X-rays are usually recommended by dentists every 6 to 12 months depending on the person, their history of tooth decay, age and the condition of their mouth.

People who fall into the high-risk category who may need X-rays taken more frequently include smokers, those with gum disease and oral health conditions such as dry mouth.

Why does Dr. Goehring use digital x-rays?

  • SAFER: Reduces radiation by up to 90% compared to traditional film-based X-rays.
  • FASTER: producing images that can be viewed immediately by you and Dr. Goehring. To make them even easier to see, we’ll enlarge them on a large monitor and lighten or darken them for best viewing.
  • BETTER: provides more diagnostic information that enables Dr. Goehring to identify problem areas earlier. Detecting a cavity sooner and smaller than before means we can fix it earlier, before it seriously weakens your tooth.
  • EASIER: with images stored on the computer that can be quickly duplicated for insurance company claims and other records.