Dental Questions: Why are x-rays so useful?

In modern dentistry, we take x-rays fairly frequently. The average patient will receive four "periodic" radiographs annually, and an entire "full mouth" set of images every five to seven years (depending on multiple factors). Why do we need so many pictures? As it turns out, x-rays are an invaluable tool in diagnosing, documenting and monitoring changes in dental diseases. Take a look!

Dental x-rays give a dentist much more information that simply "looking in the mouth." In regards to tooth decay, radiographs can show cavities forming in areas that are impossible to visualize, such as in-between two teeth. Furthermore, they give more information on the location and depth of decay, helping inform decisions on placing fillings versus crowns, the risk of nerve irritation and what materials to use to fill the tooth. In most instances, we will not perform a filling on a tooth without an acceptable x-ray of the effected area. Radiographs are also necessary in assessing gum disease and bone loss. They can document the amount and pattern of recession, helping make decisions on dental cleanings and possible periodontal surgeries. In severe circumstances, heavy tartar hidden beneath the gum line will be visible on radiographs as well. 

This image shows the progression of cavities, as seen on dental x-rays. In the last image, the decay has reached the tooth's nerve, necessitating a root canal

X-rays are also of great use in documenting and monitoring dental problems. Particularly in working with insurance companies, radiographs help demonstrate the necessity of certain procedures. This can improve the approval process and speed up reimbursements. Additionally, x-rays can help track the changes in dental conditions over time, aiding in decisions on treatment or continued monitoring. 

This image shows the progression of gum disease, as seen on an x-ray. The small white bumps that form on the sides of the teeth are tartar below the gumline. 

Radiographs are useful in visualizing much more than gum disease and tooth decay. Procedures like root canals, extractions and implants are impossible to perform without good radiographs. To learn more about the diagnostic tools we use in dentistry, please give our office a call. 

Dental Questions: How Often are Dental X-rays Taken?

X-ray images of your teeth are part of a complete regular dental examination. There is no other way to fully visualize every surface of the tooth and catch cavities before they become big problems. Likewise, they are a crucial step in diagnosing tooth pain during an emergency appointment. In this article, we hope to shed some light on the frequency and number of x-rays we take at our office. Read on for the full story!

For starters, it is important to recognize the relative safety of dental radiographs versus their diagnostic benefits. A full mouth set of x-rays exposes a patient to the same amount of radiation as a trans-atlantic flight. Likewise, if you spent 2 hours in direct sunlight the day of your appointment, you have received the same amount of exposure as a single film. In short, the risk is nearly negligible. However, we still strive to take as few images as possible, only exposing the teeth that absolutely need to be pictured. 

A full mouth x-ray series is composed of about eighteen films (four bitewings and 14 periapicals) that capture every surface of every tooth. Bitewings are used to visualize the spaces in between the molars and premolars and record the bone height around the teeth. Periapicals provide imaging of the root systems, any possible infections and the spaces between the anterior teeth. We usually take a new full mouth series every three to five years and update bitewings every six to eighteen months. These schedules are not set by patient preference or convenience- rather, they are dictated by guidelines from the ADA in accordance with the patient's specific risk for developing new cavities or gum disease. 

Naturally, these guidelines are not hard rules. We may wish to take x-rays more often if we are monitoring a specific tooth or if you come to an emergency appointment in pain. We calculate the need for radiographs very carefully and only recommend taking them when it is crucial to making a proper diagnosis. If you have any further questions about dental x-rays, exams or cleanings please give our office a call!