It’s not extremely enjoyable. 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 required? 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 underneath existing bridgework, crowns, or other restorations
- Abscesses, cysts, and infections
- Cavities between teeth just beneath where adjacent teeth touch (interproximal cavities)
- The position of wisdom teeth
How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?
This depends on the patient. A patient with no history of cavities, no existing 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, thin enamel, chipped or cracked teeth. In addition, patients with an eating disorder or other medical condition may be considered high risk. People who haven’t had their wisdom teeth taken out also need to be checked with x-rays more frequently.
If you are a patient of Alaska Premier Dental Group, our friendly staff will counsel you on the frequency of x-rays when your treatment plan is discussed. If you are not a current patient and are seeking an experienced, friendly dentist in the Anchorage area, we invite you to contact us at 907-337-0404 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting you.
Contact Alaska Premier Dental Group:
907-337-0404