How often do you need dental X-rays taken?
The number one factor for determining how often you need dental x-rays taken is the amount of fillings or restorations you already have in your mouth. If you have multiple fillings or other dental restorations, you need to have x-rays taken more often.
Can I get X-rays from my old dentist’s office?
If you are seeing a new dentist, you may be wondering whether you can get x-rays sent from your old dentist’s office. The good news is that most dentists have no issues doing this since you are legally entitled to a copy. However, you may have to sign in a form or call in to authorize a request to release your x-rays.
Do we need an X-ray before treating a decayed tooth?
I once had a retired surgeon (MD) insisting that I didn’t need an x-ray of his grossly-decayed tooth before treating it. “Just fill it. ” Ummm… yeah. no. We need an x-ray before we can touch that tooth. After some back and forth, he gruffly consented to the x-ray. The x-ray revealed decay to the pulp of the tooth.
Do I need dental X-rays if I have multiple fillings?
If you have multiple fillings or other dental restorations, you need to have x-rays taken more often. It is important not only to monitor the state of the fillings and restorations you have, but also to keep an eye on the surrounding teeth because you are more prone to decay.
How long should you wait between dental X-rays?
Those without risk of decay can be done every 12 – 24 months. Adults with restored teeth – If you ever had any procedures such as crowns, implants, fillings, and bridges, dental x-rays are recommended every 12 – 18 months.
Are dental X-rays transferable?
If you've had dental X-rays taken within the past year, then having these images transferred can save you the money it would cost to take new X-rays at your new dentist's office.
How often can you get dentist X-rays?
For the most part, a general dentist will recommend x-rays once a year. Most patients, whether children or adults, will undergo two routine check-up appointments a year. Typically, they are spread out so that they fall every six months.
Can I switch dentists in the middle of a procedure?
You can be unhappy and end up switching dentists mid-treatment and yes, you can switch dentists in the middle of a procedure. You can do whatever you'd like with your health.
What happens to dental records when you change dentists?
You'll Have to Get the Dental Records Transferred Just like switching to a new doctor, your records have to transfer over to the new dentist. Many dentists will take care of this for you, but you may have to ask your old dentist for the records yourself.
Is it hard to switch dentists?
Expect lots of paperwork, lots of information, and new x-rays. Your new dentist should want to get the most accurate picture of your dental health so that they can create a personalized, accurate dental treatment plan, but this process won't be overwhelming since you know it's coming.
How often should you get dental cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist at least once a year to get a routine examination and cleaning. If you have a history of periodontal disease, you should get your teeth cleaned more often in order to prevent the recurrence of infections or disease.
Should you get a second opinion on dental work?
When it comes to your health, it's always best to trust your instincts. If you feel unsure about a dental diagnosis or treatment plan, consider getting a second opinion from another dentist. Getting a second opinion can help you understand your options and feel confident about the treatment plan you choose.
How do you break up with a dentist?
If a dentist decides to breakup with a patient, he or she must give the patient notice—often by certified mail—and provide that patient with adequate time to find a new dentist. State law determines the timeframe, and is usually 30 days.
Why do patients leave a dental practice?
Dentist/hygienist is not very gentle or had a painful experience - 43%. Increase in the price of dental services - 43%. Current dentist did not participate in their carrier's provider network - 40%. Too long of a wait at appointments - 29%.
Why do dentists need X-rays?
But X-rays show dental providers a lot. X-rays help them see the condition of your teeth, roots, jaw placement and facial bone composition. They also help them find and treat dental problems early in their development. X-rays are a form of energy that can travel through or be absorbed by solid objects.
How often should I get an X-ray?
How often X-rays need to be taken depends on your medical and dental history and current condition. Some people may need X-rays as often as every six months. Others who don’t have recent dental or gum disease and who have ongoing scheduled visits with their dentist may only need X-rays every couple of years.
What is the difference between a periapical and an occlusal x-ray?
Periapical X-rays detect any unusual changes in the root and surrounding bone structures. Occlusal X-rays track the development and placement of an entire arch of teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Extraoral X-rays are used to detect dental problems in the jaw and skull. There are several types of extraoral X-rays.
What does a periapical x-ray show?
It can also see any wear or breakdown of dental fillings. Periapical X-rays show the whole tooth — from the crown, to beyond the root where the tooth attaches into the jaw. Each periapical X-ray shows all teeth in one portion of either the upper or lower jaw.
What is the most common type of dental X-ray?
There are two main types of dental X-rays: intraoral (the X-ray film is inside the mouth) and extraoral (the X-ray film is outside the mouth). I ntraoral X-rays are the most common type of X-ray. There are several types of intraoral X-rays. Each shows different aspects of teeth. Bitewing X-rays show details of the upper ...
Why do you need to take X-rays more often?
First-visit X-rays are also used to compare with X-rays taken over time to look for problems and unexpected changes.X-rays may need to be taken more often in people at high risk for dental problems. These people include:
What does X-rays tell you about a child's teeth?
Cysts and some types of tumors. In children, X-rays determine: If decay is developing. If there is enough space in the mouth to fit all incoming teeth. If wisdom teeth are developing. If teeth are impacted (unable to emerge through the gums).
Why do dentists use X-rays?
These X-rays are used with low levels of radiation to capture images of the interior of your teeth and gums. This can help your dentist to identify problems, like cavities, tooth decay, and impacted teeth. Dental X-rays may seem complex, but they’re actually very common tools that are just as important as your teeth cleanings.
What happens after dental xrays?
After dental X-rays. When the images are ready — instantly in the case of digital X-rays — your dentist will review them and check for abnormalities. If a dental hygienist is cleaning your teeth, the dentist may go over the results of the X-rays with you after your cleaning is done. The exception is if the hygienist discovers any significant ...
What is the most common type of dental X-ray?
There are several types of dental X-rays, which record slightly different views of your mouth. The most common are intraoral X-rays, such as: Bitewing. This technique involves biting down on a special piece of paper so that your dentist can see how well the crowns of your teeth match up.
When to use extraoral x-rays?
Extraoral X-rays may be used when your dentist suspects there might be problems in areas outside of the gums and teeth, such as the jaw. A dental hygienist will guide you through each step of the X-ray process. They might step outside of the room briefly while the images are being taken.
Why do children need X-rays?
Children may need to have dental X-rays more often than adults because their dentists might need to monitor the growth of their adult teeth. This is important because it can help the dentist determine if baby teeth need to be pulled to prevent complications, such as adult teeth growing in behind baby teeth.
What is the best X-ray to check for cavities?
This is commonly used to check for cavities between teeth (interdental). Occlusal. This X-ray is done when your jaw is closed to see how your upper and bottom teeth line up. It can also detect anatomical abnormalities with the floor of the mouth or the palate. Occlusal.
Why do dentists put lead bibs on their patients?
Your dentist will also place a lead “bib” over your chest, abdomen, and pelvic region to prevent any unnecessary radiation exposure to your vital organs. A thyroid collar may be used in the case of thyroid conditions. Children and women of childbearing age may also wear them along with the lead bib.
How X-Rays Work
During your dental X-ray, a small amount of electromagnetic radiation is used to create an X-ray image of your teeth, roots, gums, jaw, and facial bones.
What They Detect
Dental X-rays can detect various abnormalities in your oral health, including early detection of dental issues that weren't found on a visual oral exam. 1 This is useful, as your dentist can recommend certain treatments (for example, braces, implants, or wisdom teeth removal) based on your results.
Types
Dentists use different types of dental X-rays to examine different aspects of your oral health. Some types are better suited than others for what your dentist is assessing.
Risks
Like other forms of X-rays, dental radiographs carry risk associated with radiation.
Summary
Dentists use different types of dental radiographs (X-rays) to identify oral damage or disease that they cannot view during a clinical examination. Using these X-rays, they can provide early diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
A Word From Verywell
Dental X-rays are an important part of keeping healthy. They are fast and painless, but if you do experience discomfort, you can ask your technician to make adjustments. If you have any concerns about the risks of dental X-rays, discuss it with your dentist.
How to find a caring dentist?
Good ways of finding a caring dentist include asking other people (friends, family, colleagues, acquaintances) for recommendations. Charges and proposed treatment can vary a lot from office to office, and you're looking for someone who provides a good fit for your needs.
Can you copy xrays in the UK?
In the UK, if you are an NHS patient on the other hand- the xrays belong to the NHS. In either case- it is also possible to copy xrays- and although that can also cost a bit- at least you wouldn't be exposed to any more radiation than is neccessary.
Do you need an annual dental x-ray?
Annual Dental X-rays? No Need for Healthy, Adult Teeth. You are an adult in good overall health. And when it comes to your teeth and gums, they are in good shape, as well. You've avoided cavities, you brush frequently and effectively and you're about to walk into your dentist's office for a checkup.
Do you need a dental xray every year?
Annual preventive X-rays, called bitewings, for healthy dental patients are not necessary. "Adult dentate patients, who receive regularly scheduled professional care and are free of signs and symptoms of oral disease, are at a low risk for dental caries," otherwise known as tooth decay.
Is dental insurance free?
And covered by insurance doesn't mean free. As the patient, depending on your coverage, you may have to pick up a percentage of the cost. Of course, for adults whose dental health is not as ideal, listening to your professional's advice makes a great deal of sense. Adults prone to cavities, for instance, should have bitewings done every ...
Why do we need x-rays?
Some cities have higher amounts of fluoride in the water source, which has shown to promote oral health in those areas. If you grew up somewhere that fluoride wasn’t a part of the drinking source, you should get x-rays more often to keep an eye on decay.
Why are x-rays important?
Dental x rays are one of the most important parts of maintaining good oral health because they give the dentist a picture of what is going on beneath the surface of the teeth. Having x rays taken regularly can diagnose and prevent serious complications that would otherwise go unnoticed.
Do you need x-rays for cavities?
Plain and simple: Some people are more prone to cavities and/or gum disease. People that have shown that they are at a higher risk of getting cavities or gum disease need to have dental x-rays taken more often, to catch signs of these at the earliest stages possible. On the contrary, patients that have shown that they are not cavity-prone can go ...
Do you need x-rays for multiple fillings?
If you have multiple fillings or other dental restorations, you need to have x-rays taken more often. It is important not only to monitor the state of the fillings and restorations you have, but also to keep an eye on the surrounding teeth because you are more prone to decay.
Do x-rays show cavities?
Patients that have had serious oral surgeries or restorations need to keep a closer eye on what is going on with their oral health than others. X-rays not only detect cavities but also can detect other complications like bone degeneration that could be from previous extractions or other things. For example, patients with dental implants need to have x rays taken regularly to monitor any irregularities or changes.
Why do people want to limit dental X-rays?
Many patients want to limit dental X-rays, because of cost, discomfort or fears of radiation. Dr.
Why are X-rays called bitewings?
They are called bitewings because you bite down on a wing-shaped device to hold the X-ray film in place. ■ Panoramic X-rays, which require a special machine that rotates around the head to provide a detailed image of all the teeth and the underlying bones in a single X-ray.
Can a dental X-ray reveal cavities?
There are various types of dental X-rays, including: ■ Bitewing X-rays, which deliver a relatively low dose of radiation and can reveal cavities between teeth, an area that dentists can’t visually inspect. By the time that decay is visible to the naked eye, a root canal may be required.
Can you get a dental X-ray of your back teeth?
To establish a baseline when visiting a dentist for the first time, new patients are advised to get X-rays, and the dental association specifies several options. One is to take bitewings of the back teeth along with a panoramic X-ray. Alternatively, dentists can take those same bitewings and a few periapical X-rays for areas of concern.
Should dentists recommend X-rays?
Dentists should not rely on a blanket policy on X-rays for all patients, according to guidelines set out by the American Dental Association. Instead they are supposed to inspect each mouth for cavities or gum disease and then recommend specific X-rays for specific reasons.
Can dentists take periapical x-rays?
Alternatively , dentists can take those same bitewings and a few periapical X-rays for areas of concern. However, a full mouth series, which involves both bitewings and a periapical X-ray of each tooth, should be reserved for patients with extensive past dental treatment or a mouthful of active decay, according to the A.D.A.
How X-Rays Work
What They Detect
- Dental X-rays can detect various abnormalities in your oral health, including early detection of dental issues that weren't found on a visual oral exam.1 This is useful, as your dentist can recommend certain treatments (for example, braces, implants, or wisdom teeth removal) based on your results. Some of the things your dentist will examine in you...
Types
- Dentists use different types of dental X-rays to examine different aspects of your oral health. Some types are better suited than others for what your dentist is assessing. The main types of dental X-rays include: 1. Bitewing:You will bite down on a biting tab during this X-ray. The image displays the crown of your top and bottom teeth.4 These are typically taken every six to 12 mont…
Risks
- Radiation
Like other forms of X-rays, dental radiographs carry risk associated with radiation. However, according to the American Dental Association, radiation exposure associated with dental X-rays is minimal, compared with the average person's total exposure from natural and human-made sour… - Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, talk to your dentist about whether you should undergo dental X-rays. You will likely make a decision together based on the risks and benefits of your unique situation.5 The evidence on dental X-ray safety for pregnant people is mixed. Some studies show an associatio…
Summary
- Dentists use different types of dental radiographs (X-rays) to identify oral damage or disease that they cannot view during a clinical examination. Using these X-rays, they can provide early diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment. There are some risks associated with X-rays because of the radiation, but the benefits of identifying oral disease early outweigh the risk.
A Word from Verywell
- Dental X-rays are an important part of keeping healthy. They are fast and painless, but if you do experience discomfort, you can ask your technician to make adjustments. If you have any concerns about the risks of dental X-rays, discuss it with your dentist. They can explain the reasons for and frequency of X-rays, as well as the steps they take to keep you safe and limit rad…