Your cleaning and examination session, involves taking X-rays of your teeth.
X-rays give us a view of deeper structures not visible from the surface. An oral examination involves both direct viewing of the mouth as well as studying of the X-ray images. Here at Dr. Lily K. Nadimi’s office we use the latest X-ray technology, known as digital radiography, which uses an electronic sensor to capture and store digital images of your teeth.
The process of digital radiography is quicker and more comfortable than the conventional film X-rays, and since it requires much less radiation it is considered to be much safer. Digital images can be viewed instantly, therfore results are available immediately.
How do I know I need an X-ray?
The frequency and need for X-rays are based on medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease. Full X-ray set of your top and bottom teeth are taken every one to three years, complemented with bite wing xrays every six months to detect cavities in between teeth and individual xrays of areas in case dental problems arise. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth, we highly recommend that you arrange an appointment with your dentist promptly.
Dental X-rays may reveal:
- Abscesses or cysts
- Broken or lost fillings
- Bone loss
- Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
- Decay between the teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Need for a Mouth Guard
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
- impacted teeth
- other problems with roots
Any of the above conditions can prove to be detrimental to your comfort and overall health. By following your doctor’s recommendations, you can prevent unnecessary discomforts as well as avoid the cost of repairing progressive dental problems. If it has been a while since you had an X-ray call us and we will set you up with an appointment.