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Dental Radiographs
Why do I need X-rays?
Radiographic or X-ray examinations provide your dentist with
an important tool that shows the condition of your teeth,
its roots, jaw placement and the overall composition of your
facial bones.
X-rays can help your dentist determine the presence or degree
of periodontal disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths,
such as cysts and tumors. X-rays also can show the exact location
of impacted and unerupted teeth. They can pinpoint the location
of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible
to detect through a visual examination.
Do all patients have X-rays taken every six months?
No. Your radiographic schedule is based on the dentist's assessment
of your individual needs, including whether you're a new patient
or a follow-up patient, adult or child. In most cases, new
patients require a full set of mouth X-rays to evaluate oral
health status, including any underlying signs of gum disease
and for future comparison. Follow-up patients may require
X- rays to monitor their gum condition or their chance of
tooth decay.
What kind of X-rays does my dentist usually take?
Typically, most dental patients have "periapical"
or "bitewing" radiographs taken. These require patients
to hold or bite down on a piece of plastic with X-ray film
in the center. Bitewing X-rays typically determine the presence
of decay in between teeth, while periapical X-rays show root
structure, bone levels, cysts and abscesses.
My dentist has prescribed a "panoramic radiograph."
What is that?
Just as a panoramic photograph allows you to see a broad view
such as the Grand Canyon, a panoramic radiograph allows your
dentist to see the entire structure of your mouth in a single
image. Within one large film, panoramic X-rays reveal all
of your upper and lower teeth and parts of your jaw.
Why do I need both types of X-rays?
What is apparent through one type of X-ray often is not visible
on another. The panoramic X-ray will give your dentist a general
and comprehensive view of your entire mouth on a single film,
which a periapical or bitewing X-ray can not show. On the
other hand, periapical or bitewing X- rays show a highly-detailed
image of a smaller area, making it easier for your dentist
to see decay or cavities between your teeth. X-rays are not
prescribed indiscriminately. Your dentist has a need for the
different information that each radiograph can provide to
formulate a diagnosis.
Should I be concerned about exposure to radiation?
All health care providers are sensitive to patients' concerns
about exposure to radiation. Your dentist has been trained
to prescribe radiographs when they are appropriate and to
tailor radiographic schedules to each patient's individual
needs. By using state-of-the-art technology and by staying
knowledgeable about recent advances, your dentist knows which
techniques, procedures and X-ray films can minimize your exposure
to radiation.
Sources:
"Guidelines for Dental X-rays Not Likely to be
Re-examined", AGD Impact, January 1998,"The Report
of the Panel to Develop Radiographic Selection Criteria for
Dental Patients," General Dentistry, "The Benefits
of X-rays", American Dental Association, 1996, "Dental
X-ray Examinations Your Dentist's Advice," American Dental
Association, 1993.
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