Visiting the dentist for a dental checkup usually involves having X-rays taken. Dental X-rays take photos of a person’s mouth in order for a dentist to see different angles and sides of the teeth, gums and jaw.
While most people are familiar with having dental X-rays taken, it can be strange for someone who has never experienced them. Being aware of important information regarding dental X-rays can help anyone who is anxious about having them done.
In this article, we will discuss some important information about dental X-rays. It can be helpful to know what to expect and why they’re needed.
X-rays are also called radiographs but they are photographs of the internal composition of something. Dental X-rays take images of the internals of a person’s mouth so that a dentist can get a better look at the teeth, gums and jawbone. Intraoral X-rays are the most common type of dental X-rays.
A person might think that the dentist just examining their mouth is enough but often times dentists want to be 100% sure that they aren’t missing anything. Dental X-rays can help a dentist see different angles or sides of the teeth, gums and jawbone — some in which might not be visible to the eye. X-rays also allow for the dentist to see the internals of the teeth, gums and jawbone which are hard to see otherwise.
Dental checkups require that X-rays are done in order to check on the status of one’s oral and dental health. Having X-rays done during a dental checkup can be preventative. Other times, X-rays are done in order to diagnose a patient with a dental health issue.
While all kinds of X-rays do involve radiation, dental X-rays expose a person to an extremely small amount. A person will wear a protective apron during the dental X-ray in order to protect the abdomen and chest from radiation. X-rays, in general, are safer to have than not having them because they can prevent and diagnose a lot of things within all types of health care.
The person will be lead to a small room that has equipment in it. The camera will move all around one’s head and jaw in order to get all sorts of images. The camera will have an extendable piece that will go within the mouth to get interior images. The dental professional will step out of the room and press the button to capture the image while the patient stays still.
Dental X-rays are an easy part of visiting the dentist’s office. They’re typically routine in order to provide preventative care but they are also commonly used for diagnosing dental problems. Being aware of what happens during an X-ray can help ease anxieties that anyone might be facing.
It has been said that pregnant women shouldn't have X-rays done because the radiation can harm the baby, but with such little exposure, it is sometimes best to have X-rays done if for preventative reasons. It's always best to ensure that the mother and baby are both healthy.
If you have questions about dental X-rays then reach out to our office today so that we can help you!
Request an appointment here: https://metrosmiles.com or call Metro Smiles Dental at (718) 841-9591 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office.
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