Why do dentists take X-Rays?

Topsail Dental uses X-rays as a critical tool for diagnosing and treating dental issues. Here’s why we take X-rays:

• Detecting Hidden Problems: Many dental issues, such as cavities between teeth, infections in the bone, or impacted teeth, are not visible during a visual examination. X-rays help reveal these hidden problems.
• Assess Tooth and Bone Structure: X-rays provide detailed images of the teeth, roots, and bone structure, helping your Dental Provider evaluate the health of your teeth and surrounding tissues.
• Diagnose Decay: X-rays can identify tooth decay that is not visible on the surface, especially between teeth or beneath existing fillings.
• Evaluate Bone Loss: Conditions like periodontal disease can lead to bone loss around the teeth. X-rays help assess the extent of bone loss and monitor changes over time.
• Plan Treatments: For procedures such as dental implants, root canals, or extractions, X-rays help plan the treatment by providing detailed images of the affected area.
• Monitor Growth and Development: In children and adolescents, X-rays are used to monitor the development of teeth and jaws, check for proper eruption of teeth, and identify potential orthodontic issues.
• Check for Abnormalities: X-rays can reveal abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, or other growths in the oral and maxillofacial regions.
• Evaluate Root Health: For root canal therapy, X-rays help visualize the root canals and surrounding bone structure, ensuring that all infected tissue is removed and the canals are properly sealed.
• Verify Treatment Outcomes: After completing treatments like root canals or implant placements, X-rays are used to confirm that the treatment was successful and that healing is progressing as expected.
• Document and Track Issues: X-rays provide a record of your dental health over time, helping track changes and diagnose recurring or previously undetected issues.

Overall, X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool that enhances our ability to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans, contributing to better overall dental care.

Fun Fact - you get more radiation exposure during your walk on the beach vs. your cavity detecting x rays.

If you haven't had recent x rays to determine your overall oral health, call today to reserve your appointment.

Call us today to reserve your appt    -   (910) 270-0728

Click Here to Reserve your appointment online