San Ramon Cosmetic Dentistry Blog | Sean Michael Anderson, D.D.S.

San Ramon, Pleasanton, Walnut Creek and Dublin, CA

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Are Dental X-rays Necessary?


Many times, when a patient is told that they are due for x-rays, this question comes up, "Do I really need x-rays? There is nothing wrong with my teeth!" Dental radiographs (x-rays) are very important in order to monitor oral health. Many things such as diseases, lesions, and oral conditions can only be detected with the use of dental radiographs. Without the aid of dental radiographs, dental professionals would not be able to see areas directly between the teeth or beneath the gums and bone. A tooth that appears visually solid in the mouth can have a host of problems happening under the gums. Remember, two-thirds of your tooth can't be seen without a dental x-ray!

Dental radiographs can detect problems long before a clinical or visual examination can. This enables the dental practitioner to identify problems early on so that pain and extensive, costly treatment can be avoided.

A common concern with having dental radiographs taken is the amount of radiation the x-ray delivers. The amount of radiation that we are exposed to from dental X-rays is very small compared to our daily exposure from things like air travel, household appliances, and high altitudes. Even though the amount of radiation we are exposed to with dental radiographs is small it is still important that we do everything that we can to reduce the amount of radiation exposure. The use of a lead apron helps protect the radiosensitive organs, such as, reproductive organs, blood forming and thyroid tissues from scatter radiation.

Treatment without the necessary radiographs is considered negligence. If a patient refuses to have necessary dental X-rays taken then the dentist can refuse to provide patient care. Radiographs are a valuable diagnostic tool that is extremely beneficial to your oral health. Dr. Anderson recommends bitewing x-rays once a year and a panoramic x-ray every 3-5 years.


The image on the left shows an apparently healthy tooth in the mouth. The image on the left shows the same tooth on the x-ray with an abscess and a large amount of decay.

Is it time for you to have a dental check up and x-rays? Contact our office today!

posted by Anonymous at 8:31 AM

925.269.2700

Sean Michael Anderson, D.D.S
Neuromuscular & Aesthetic Cosmetic Dentistry

1501 Bollinger Canyon Road Suite G
San Ramon, CA 94583

Disclaimer: San Ramon, CA cosmetic dentist Dr. Sean Anderson's website only provides information on cosmetic dentistry, neuromuscular dentistry, and family dentistry in Alamo, Danville, Dublin, Pleasanton , Walnut Creek
and the San Ramon area south of San Francisco. This information is not to be taken as medical advice.
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