As the dentist continues to examine the teeth and gums, there may be a need for dental X-rays. X-rays can identify any problems in your mouths, such as cavities or decay, before they turn into bigger problems such as tooth loss. Dental X-rays provide an accurate diagnosis to help the Bismarck family dentists create a treatment plan that is tailored for each patient’s needs.
Dental x-rays are an effective and non-invasive way to identify and monitor dental health. They can detect cavities, abnormalities, and early stages of gum disease. Dental x-rays should be taken as soon as a person has their first tooth. It is also recommended to take one at least annually thereafter. A dental x-ray is painless and requires only a few seconds if the patient remains still.
Your dentist may recommend you take dental x-rays in order to get a better understanding of many different aspects of your oral health, including the following:
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Hidden cavities
Dental x-rays are a vital component of detecting cavities and other issues in the mouth. This is because the human eye can’t see things as well as an x-ray machine can. X-rays show gaps and other issues we cannot otherwise see, which helps dentists to provide patients with comprehensive care for their teeth. A dental x-ray checks for anything that could harm your teeth, including cavities, gum disease, injuries, and bone problems.
Bone loss
Dental X-rays are not only used to detect cavities in teeth but also for other purposes. It’s sometimes necessary to take dental X-rays of the jawbone to detect early signs of bone loss. Bone loss can be an indication of osteoporosis, which is a condition where the bones become brittle and porous. An early diagnosis could help slow this process and prevent future problems.
Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
Dental X-rays have been a big help in diagnosing patients with cancerous and non-cancerous tumors. They have been used to detect cancers of the head, neck, breast, lung, stomach, pancreas, prostate, and ovary. In many cases, they are the best or only way to diagnose a tumor before it is too late. Dental X-rays can collect information about an area that is inaccessible with any other method.
Poor tooth and root positions
Dental x-rays are a cost-effective way to detect root and tooth positions. It is very important for dentists to be able to identify any abnormalities in the shape of the teeth and their roots. This helps the dentist know how to treat your teeth, such as whether or not they should be crowned or how deep a filling should go.