Dental X-rays are are very beneficial tool for both the dentist and patient when it comes to protecting teeth and keeping them healthy long into the future. X-rays are at least partially covered under most insurance plans, and they can help paint a clear picture of what’s going on in your mouth. Below, we take a look at the numerous benefits of dental X-rays.
Sees What We Can’t
Your dentist can spot cavities or plaque buildup on your teeth, but it’s impossible for them to tell where tooth enamel is weakening or how your child’s permanent teeth are forming without the assistance of an X-ray. This diagnostic tool allows dentists to see things that they normally couldn’t with the naked eye, so they can stop potential problems in their infancy.
Highlights Cavities
Some cavities can be difficult to spot, especially if they occur in the close spaces between teeth. With X-ray imaging, your dentist can learn where these cavities are without having to dig around for a while in your mouth. This shortens your visit and helps you get the treatment you need for new or developing cavities.
Allows For Comparisons Or Growth Tracking
If you get regular X-rays, or you simply get a second imaging test performed at a later date, your dentist will be able to compare to two images to see how teeth are forming or how treatments are working. If they notice that one tooth is coming in at a bad angle or that a nerve root is damaged, they can take preventative measures to prevent problems down the road.
Provides A Baseline
If you’re a new patient, X-rays are a great way for a dentist to be able to study your mouth and what work you’ve had done all by looking at a couple of images. You can have old X-rays forwarded to your new dentist, but the new office will usually like to get a baseline understanding of what’s going on inside your mouth with a new patient X-ray during your first visit.
Safe and Effective
Although very low doses of radiation are used during the X-ray, dental X-rays are very safe. Dentists take precautions to limit radiation exposure as much as possible, but you should let your doctor know if you think or know you’re pregnant to ensure there is no danger to you or your child.
For more information about dental X-rays, or to set up a dental appointment with Dr. Brooks, reach out to his office today at (952) 260-3156.
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