Why Do I Need Dental X-Rays?

At Crossroads Dental Arts we take X-rays as needed. If a patient comes to our office with a toothache, lost filling, or broken tooth, we generally take a single radiograph of that particular tooth. The X-ray can show us if there is a possible abscess, root fracture, decay, and bone loss. From this information, we can decide if the tooth can be restored, rebuilt or treated in some other way. Patients that come to our office and are having problems related to wisdom teeth, we recommend a panoramic or jaw X-ray to see the location of the wisdom teeth. When patients come in for routine check-ups we generally take four bitewing X-rays annually to check for new cavities, cavities around old fillings and crowns, properly fitting crowns and bridges, and changes in bone levels. If a patient comes to our office for the first time, we like to have a full set of X-rays, including bitewing X-rays to help diagnose any and all dental issues. A full set of X-rays is generally taken every three to five years.

Crossroads Dental Arts uses the latest technology, digital X-rays. Digital X-rays compared to conventional X-rays exposes patients to 70% less radiation and are much more environmentally friendly. Another benefit of digital X-rays is that they are much more comfortable for the patient. For your protection, we use lead aprons with a thyroid collar to minimize the exposure even more. We are happy to answer any and all of your questions at your next visit. We look forward to seeing you!