Undergoing regular dental X-rays is an important part of maintaining your pearly whites. While you might not need X-rays at every teeth cleaning appointment, your dentist might recommend them occasionally. If you’re wondering what this diagnostic procedure entails or why it’s so important, here are some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject. 

What You Need to Know About Dental X-Rays

What kinds of dental issues will appear on X-ray images?

Dental X-rays can reveal all kinds of oral health issues that are impossible to detect during a typical teeth cleaning appointment, such as decay between the teeth, bone loss caused by gum disease, infected root canals, and abscesses. In many cases, X-rays allow dentists to detect these problems before they cause any noticeable symptoms, so they can be treated while still in their earliest stages. 

Are dental X-rays safe?

By their nature, X-rays expose patients to radiation. However, the amount is so small that it doesn’t pose a significant risk to children or adults, even if they undergo the procedure at every exam. Many offices even rely on digital X-rays, which emit even less radiation. However, since pregnant women should avoid any radiation whatsoever, they are advised to stop getting dental X-rays until after they have given birth. 

How often should I get dental X-rays?

Dentists will typically X-ray all new patients during their first appointment. This allows them to establish a baseline, so they can note any changes over time. Otherwise, you might undergo X-rays every 6, 12, 18, 24, or 36 months. The precise frequency will depend on your oral health and medical history.

Does dental insurance cover X-rays?

Since annual dental X-rays are considered a diagnostic or preventive service, most insurers will cover 100% of their cost. After all, patients who get regular X-rays tend to cost the insurance provider a lot less over time because they can identify and treat minor issues before they turn into major problems. 

If you’re overdue for a teeth cleaning appointment with X-rays, turn to Dental Distinctions in Kalispell, MT. For more than two decades, this family practice has been providing comprehensive preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry care. In their state-of-the-art facility, their friendly team performs all kinds of procedures, and they're always striving to make the smiles they work on as beautiful as possible in the process. To see some of their impressive smile makeovers, visit their website. To schedule a teeth cleaning appointment, call (406) 755-4166.