Dental
X-Rays
Do I Really
Need X-rays?
X-rays are an important diagnostic tool. They enable us to see areas of
your teeth and jaws that cannot be examined in any other way. Early detection
of decay or other disease can keep treatment simple.
Three types of dental x-rays are used in our office.
* Cavity detecting (bitewing) x-rays are used
to detect decay between the teeth where we are unable to see. The picture
demonstrates the fact that although the teeth appear normal during visual
clinical examination, deep decay is evident upon examination of the x-ray.
* A periapical x-ray shows the entire tooth and root plus the surrounding
bone and tissue. A complete x-ray series, sometimes called a "full-mouth"
series, consists of 14 to 21 periapical x-rays. This type of series allows
a complete examination of all the teeth and the supporting bone.
* A Panoramic x-ray is a large
single film that shows the entire mouth. It is an excellent screening device
for determining general conditions; however, periapical films may still
be needed for a closer examination of specific areas.
How Often
Do I Need Them?
We will recommend x-rays only when you need them. The following are general
guidelines:
Emergency patients - If you have pain or swelling, x-rays can help
determine the cause so we may treat the problem and relieve your discomfort.
New patients - Dental x-rays are part of a complete examination
for each new patient. The number needed will depend upon the special conditions
in your mouth. In addition to being an immediate diagnostic aid, these
x-rays also establish a baseline for evaluating future changes.
Hygiene appointment patients - X-rays will be recommended when needed.
Usually cavity detecting films once a year, but may vary by the needs of
the individual patient.
Children - In addition to checking for decay, x-rays enable us to
check the progress of developing teeth. The interval between x-ray studies
is determined by the needs of the individual child.
Should I
Ask My Previous Dentist To Send My X-rays?
Yes, this is usually a good idea. Previous x-rays enable us to evaluate
changes that may have occurred in your mouth. Try to get the original x-rays
and not copies. Most copies are not of good quality and are useless.
What About
Radiation Safety?
Before any x-rays are taken a leaded apron will be placed over you. This
prevents your exposure to secondary radiation.
We use high-speed x-ray film to minimize the amount of radiation necessary
to produce a quality x-ray. Our x-ray machines are tested regularly by
the Ohio Department of Health to insure they meet all safety standards.
How Much
Radiation Do I Receive?
The radiation exposure during a dental x-ray examination is so small that
the chance it will contribute to any health problems is extremely low.
Because of the brief exposure time and the small diameter of the x-ray
beam, the skin of the face receives approximately 0.15 roentgens to 0.5
roentgens per film. (a roentgen is a unit of measurement for radiation.)
In order to produce skin cancer, exposures in the ranges of thousands of
roentgens are needed. Even if you have had radiation therapy, it is wise
to take necessary x-rays. The danger of missing an important diagnostic
clue is greater than any radiation hazard.
Return