Why Do Dentists Do Radiographs?
Your teeth are prone to cavities, infection and trauma. Some of these problems can be fixed by going to the dentist, who will treat the issue in no time. However, you might notice that the dentist has recommended a radiograph. You might think you have a minor tooth problem, but a radiograph can show deeper issues that your naked eye cannot. With the information below, you will understand why dentists do radiographs and the types of problems they can detect. So, let’s get into it.
What Are Dental X-Rays and Why Are They Important?
The procedure of undergoing a dental x-ray is not a comfortable one; however, it is one of the essential steps before undergoing any dental procedure. Therefore, when you go to the dentist who performs dental x-rays in Bronx, NY, they can see any underlying issue you might have.
One of the main advantages of going through radiography is that it can help the dentist identify a minor issue in your oral cavity before it becomes a big problem. So, what types of issues do a dental x-ray show?
First is decay. It can be challenging for the dentist to see how deep bacteria has spread in your tooth, but a dental x-ray can. In addition, radiography can also show decay beneath existing fillings.
When you lose your tooth, the bone that held the tooth in place begins to deteriorate. The dentist can recommend an x-ray to help them know how much bone you have lost, which allows them to determine whether or not you’re a suitable candidate for dental procedures like a dental implant.
Another dental issue an x-ray can show is the changes in your jawbone due to infection. When you have an infection in your oral cavity, it can affect your bone and procedures like a root canal. Without the x-ray film, the dentist can not know the effect of bacterial infection on your tooth.
Dental x-rays are also performed before a dental procedure. For instance, the dentist cannot put braces on your teeth or dental implants before radiography. The x-ray film will assist in knowing the position of your teeth, their condition, the amount of jawbone you have, and whether it is sufficient.
Some tumours and cysts cannot be seen with the naked eye. This is where a dental x-ray comes in. It can show abnormal growth in your oral cavity and help the dentist remove it before it becomes cancerous.
You can also take your kid to the dentist who performs dental radiographs in Bronx, NY. The radiography will help the dentist evaluate whether there is enough space for the incoming teeth. Moreover, dental x-rays can also help the dentist know whether or not wisdom teeth are developing.
Types of Dental X-rays
There are different dental x-rays, each showing a different angle of your mouth and oral cavity. The most common dental x-ray is an intraoral X-ray. Here are the different types of intraoral x-rays:
Periapical
This type of X-ray focuses on taking the image of two complete teeth from root to crown.
Panoramic
The machine used for this technique is placed close to your head and can be rotated. Because of this, the machine is suitable for checking wisdom teeth and checking any jaw issues.
Occlusal
The dentist uses this type of x-ray to capture all of your teeth in one shot.
Bitewing
When you go for this procedure, the dentist will tell you to bite down on a special piece of paper to see how your teeth’s crowns match. In this way, the dentist can know whether you have cavities.
How Often Should Teeth Be X-Rayed?
First, the dentist will recommend radiography depending on your oral issue and medical history. You might notice that some patients go for x-rays every six months while others go for the procedure only when they have an oral problem. If it is your first time at BX Dental, our dentist will perform the dental x-ray. The first x-ray will be essential to determine if you have any oral issues and can be used to compare other x-ray films which might be taken over time.
Nevertheless, a dental x-ray is less essential than regular check-ups and practising proper oral hygiene. But still, radiography can save the life of your natural tooth.