When you visit the dentist, there are chances that you’ll be instructed to bite on a small piece of plastic while a bizarre-looking machine zips around your head. That’s a dental X-ray at work! It might seem a bit unusual, but dental X-rays are actually one of the most valuable tools your dentist in Mokena has for maintaining your smile.
What are dental X-rays? In short, they are special pictures that give the dentist the ability to see inside your mouth and look beyond the gums and teeth. They use a minimal amount of radiation, and allow pictures that show the teeth, roots, jawbone and surrounding structures.
These help to catch problems earlier, often even before you can tell something is wrong.
Types of Dental X-Rays
There are a number of dental X-rays in Mokena, and all are for a particular use:
- Bitewing X-rays: Display the top and bottom teeth within one segment to see if there are cavities between them.
- Periapical X-rays: Emphasize one tooth or two at a time, from the top (crown) to the bottom (root).
- Panoramic X-rays: Take a complete snapshot of your whole mouth, jaws, all your teeth, and even sinuses.
- Occlusal X-rays: Reveal the top or bottom area of the mouth and are typically done on younger kids.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Important?
Now, let’s discuss “why are dental x-rays important”. Only a few issues can be detected by the naked eye by dentists. Most issues start deep in your teeth or underneath your gums. X-rays assist in uncovering these issues early, when they’re easier to treat.
Benefits of Dental X-Rays
The benefits of dental X-rays are not limited to the identification of cavities. They assist in the detection of internal infections, tracking the status of the jawbone, examination of wisdom teeth, and even locating tumours or cysts. All these enable your dentist to develop a custom treatment plan that best addresses your needs.
Dental X-Rays and Teens
For high-school students, dental X-rays are especially useful. They help your dentist see how your adult teeth will be coming out, or whether you’ll need braces, or if there are any problems forming under the surface. Plus, X-rays make it easier to track changes in your mouth from year to year.
How Safe Are Dental X-Rays?
Dental X-rays are extremely safe. Their radiation levels are very low, and modern digital X-rays use even less than older methods. Your dentist will always use protective gear and only recommend X-rays when they’re really needed. So if you’re worried, don’t be. It’s a simple, fast, and painless part of your check-up.
How Often Should You Get Dental X-Rays?
There’s no fixed rule for everyone. Your age, oral health, and dental history all play a role. Some people need them once a year, while others might need them less frequently. Your dentist near you will help you to decide what’s best based on your personal needs.
See the Unseen, Save Your Smile!
Dental X-rays may be invisible to the eye, but their impact is huge. They help detect problems before they grow, guide treatments, and keep your smile shining for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with growing teeth or checking for hidden cavities, X-rays are a smart move to check your health.
At Axion Dental, we use advanced digital imaging to provide safe, accurate, and comfortable dental X-rays. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Let your smile shine with confidence! Book your appointment today with the trusted dentist for expert care and precise dental X-rays only at Axion Dental.
