In most medical settings, doctors will not order X-rays unless they suspect the patient has sustained an injury or developed a condition that will show up on the images. In the field of dentistry, though, X-rays serve an important role in preventive care. Here’s what you should know about dental X-rays and why your dentist takes them even when you don’t have any pressing oral health concerns. 

How Dental X-Rays Are Used

There are several different kinds of dental X-rays, and each serves a specific purpose. For example, bitewing X-rays capture the portion of each tooth that sits above the gum line. These images allow dentists to identify any problem areas, like developing decay between the teeth. Periapical X-rays, on the other hand, capture the entire tooth, so the images they produce can highlight the need for root canal treatment. 

Panoramic X-rays are taken from outside the mouth and capture the upper and lower jaw in addition to the teeth. The images that result may show bone irregularities, impacted teeth, jaw issues, cysts, or tumors. Finally, occlusal X-rays capture underneath the upper teeth and above the lower teeth. The resulting images of the floor or roof of the mouth help dentists confirm whether a child’s teeth are developing normally. 

Why Dental X-Rays Matter

Having dental X-rays taken periodically is important because many oral health issues do not manifest any symptoms until they have developed to a fairly advanced stage. In other words, X-ray images allow dentists to identify and treat minor issues that patients were unaware even existed before they turn into major problems. You can expect to undergo multiple X-ray scans during your first appointment at a new practice. The resulting images will allow the provider to gain a comprehensive understanding of your oral health. Then, you will undergo X-rays periodically at future appointments. You may need them at every cleaning, or you may only need them once a year. The precise frequency will depend on a variety of factors. 

If you can’t remember the last time you had dental X-rays taken, head to North Carolina’s High Point Smile Dentistry for a professional cleaning and comprehensive oral exam. Serving patients throughout the Greater Triad area, this practice has been providing preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry for more than 15 years. Their friendly family dentists offer everything from teeth whitening to root canal therapy. They even have a Smile Analysis on their website to help patients determine which procedures are right for them. Call (336) 884-4000 to make an appointment with a dentist on their team.