Why are X-rays important?
Dental x-rays are used to detect cavities, signs of trauma and/or infection, pathology, and monitor overall growth and development, among various other reasons. Cavities between the teeth start out very small and cannot be seen without x-rays until they are much larger. Therefore, once the teeth are in contact/touching (usually by age 3 or 4), it is important to start taking x-rays to check for cavities between the teeth.
Radiographs, commonly know as x-rays, are an essential tool for your CDA member dentist to properly diagnose your oral health. They allow your CDA member dentist to see beyond what can be seen visually and provide the ability to diagnose dental disease in the early stages – before it has advanced to the point of causing discomfort and destruction. X-rays assist the dentist in determining the presence and degree of dental caries (cavities), periodontal disease, abscesses and abnormal growths, such as tumors or cysts. They also show the location and condition of impacted or unerupted teeth. How often should x-rays be taken? The type of x-rays taken and the interval between x-rays is dependent upon the condition of your mouth, the degree of active disease present and what oral structures your CDA member dentist needs to see. One of the most common sets of x-rays is known as “bitewing” x-rays. A bitewing set is usually four x-rays that are placed by your back teeth. You may recognize them
