Dental X-rays are integral to your oral care. They create an image of your teeth and their alignment to help your dentist build a dentistry plan that’s tailored to your needs. Although they’re common, you may have questions about them. Here are the answers you need. 

What You Should Know About Dental X-rays 

Why are they performed?  

During routine checkups, dentists visually examine the teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks for signs of decay, gumline recession, lesions, staining, and other oral health issues. However, not all problems are visible to the naked eye. X-rays detect these hidden concerns, such as interdental decay, bone loss, or infections. They’re also used in pediatric dentistry, as they help dentists identify and treat irregularities like a lack of adult teeth or crowding. They may need to conduct regular scans to keep track of treatment, such as monitoring tooth realignment from braces. 

How often should you get them? 

In general, you should have them done about once every two years. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent scans to check your progress during or after specific dentistry procedures, such as braces or root canal treatment. Children should also have these scans more frequently, or about once a year, to track the growth of their adult teeth and to catch any complications early. 

Are there any risks? 

While dental X-rays use radiation, the amounts are so low that they are unlikely to pose any risk to children or adults. A lead “bib” or cover will protect you from unnecessary radiation. However, out of an abundance of caution, if you’re pregnant or nursing, you should talk to your dentist about postponing until the child is no longer weaning. 

How should you prepare? 

Dental X-rays do not require much preparation. You should brush your teeth before seeing your dentist, both to be courteous and to make it easier for them to spot potential issues. 

For comprehensive care from X-rays to teeth whitening, root canal treatments, veneers, and beyond, visit Legacy Dental Arts. Since 2007, they’ve provided Eagle River, AK, with top-notch dental care, lifting spirits and enhancing people’s lives. With state-of-the-art equipment and a soothing, spa-like atmosphere, you’ll feel comfortable and welcomed from start to finish. To learn more, call (907) 622-7874 or visit their website.