It’s not extremely pleasant. You have to put on the heavy apron, hold an awkward piece of film in your mouth and sit really, really still while your dentist’s assistant takes x-rays. Is it really necessary? Absolutely! No question about it.
Your dentist can’t see everything that is going on with your teeth, bone, and surrounding tissue without x-rays.
What Hidden Problems Do Dental X-rays Detect?
- Cavities below existing bridgework, crowns, or other restorations
- Abscesses, cysts, and infections
- Cavities between teeth just below where adjacent teeth touch (interproximal cavities)
- The position of wisdom teeth
How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?
This depends on the dental patient. A patient with no history of decay, no present tooth decay, no braces, and no existing crowns, veneers, or bridgework is at low risk for cavities. A high-risk patient is in the opposite situation and may have one or more of the following: earlier cavities, existing restorations, braces, worn-away enamel, or chipped or cracked teeth. In addition, patients with an eating disorder or other medical conditions may be considered high risk. People who haven’t had their wisdom teeth taken out also need to be overseen with X-rays more frequently.
Contact Vaca & Kirby Dental:
903-663-0861
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3121 H G Mosley Pkwy
Longview, Texas
85605
