Dental X-rays (radiographs) are taken according to each patient's individual health needs. It is important to recognize that just as each patient is different from the next, so should the scheduling of X-ray exams be individualized for each patient. Your dentist will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether you need radiographs and what type. If you are a new patient, the dentist may recommend radiographs to determine the present status of the hidden areas of your mouth and to help analyze changes that may occur later.
The schedule for needing radiographs at recall visits varies according to your age, risk for disease and signs and symptoms. Recent films may be needed to detect new cavities, or to determine the status of gum disease or for evaluation of growth and development. Children may need X-rays more often than adults. This is because their teeth and jaws are still developing and because their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults.
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your mouth.
An X-ray examination may reveal:
1. small areas of decay between the teeth;
2. presence of periodontal (gum) disease;
3. location of impacted teeth, e.g. wisdom teeth;
4. infections in the bone;
5. abscesses or cysts;
6. developmental abnormalities;
7. some types of tumors.
Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money and unnecessary discomfort. It can detect damage to oral structures not visible during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, radiographs may even help save your life.