Uncover the Root of Your Oral Concerns Using X-Rays and Radiographs
Dental x-rays and radiographs can be helpful diagnostic tools that help your dentist detect minor to severe oral damage caused by disease or injury that might not be visible during a routine oral exam. The frequency you should have x-rays taken depends on your current health situation and if you exhibit any symptoms of oral disease. At The Hope Dental Care Centre, Dr. Far, and Gang Wang, and the team can provide you with smile-saving diagnostic services such as panoramic x-rays, bitewing x-rays, and full mouth x-rays.
Panoramic x-ray
One diagnostic tool your dentist will use to diagnose deeper issues is the panoramic x-ray which employs a very small dose of radiation to capture a complete image of your entire mouth all at once. It’s often performed by oral surgeons and dentists daily and can be used for treatments such as braces, dentures, implants, and extractions.
Full-mouth x-ray (FMX)
Our team uses a series of full-mouth x-rays which can include about 10 different x-ray images, such as periapical x-rays of all your teeth and bitewing x-rays. This x-ray service is typically performed every 4-5 years, depending on the patient’s oral health history.
Full-mouth x-rays can tell a dentist a lot of information in one sitting, allowing them to detect issues such as:
- Tooth decay occurring below fillings
- Interproximal cavities (cavities between teeth)
- Bone loss
- Periapical x-rays (PA)
These x-rays are taken separately for each tooth. The x-ray covers the tooth crown to the tip of its root. They identify certain infections close to the tooth root, pulp, and canal.
Bitewing x-rays
These x-rays are the most common radiographs dentists use to diagnose oral issues. Bitewing x-rays can give your dentist insights into the positioning and health of your teeth below the gums, plus they can diagnose gum disease. The name of this x-ray procedure is derived from how it is performed. They use a mouthpiece with a tab patients bite down on.
Learn More About How Dental X-Rays Can Improve Your Oral Health
To learn more about the benefits of dental x-rays, call The Hope Dental Care Centre at (343) 803-6333 to set up your one-on-one consultation with our team. Our office is at 500 Hazeldean Rd Suite 107, Kanata, ON.
Dental X-Rays & Radiographs FAQs
How do dental X-rays help detect problems not visible during regular exams?
Dental X-rays are crucial for detecting hidden dental issues. While a standard examination shows visible parts of your teeth and gums, X-rays allow Dr. Far to see below the surface. This includes spotting cavities between teeth, infections in tooth roots, and bone loss related to gum disease. Early detection with X-rays helps prevent these problems from becoming more severe, ultimately protecting your oral health.
Are dental X-rays safe for children, and why are they necessary?
Dental X-rays are safe for children, and they play a vital role in monitoring their oral development. Dr. Far uses the lowest possible radiation exposure to capture images. X-rays help detect issues like cavities, crowded teeth, and developmental concerns that can impact the alignment of permanent teeth. Addressing these issues early can save children from more extensive treatments in the future.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your oral health history and current condition. Dr. Far may recommend X-rays annually to monitor changes for patients with a history of cavities, gum disease, or dental restorations. Patients with excellent oral health might only need them every two to three years. Dr. Far customizes recommendations based on your unique needs.
What are the benefits of digital X-rays compared to traditional film X-rays?
Digital X-rays, which Dr. Far uses at The Hope Dental Care Centre, offer several advantages. They produce clear images almost instantly, making it easier to diagnose problems quickly. Digital X-rays also expose patients to significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays. Additionally, these images can be enhanced and shared easily for treatment planning.
Can dental X-rays detect conditions beyond tooth decay?
Yes, dental X-rays can reveal a wide range of issues beyond cavities. Dr. Far uses them to detect bone loss associated with gum disease, cysts or tumours in the jawbone, and the positioning of impacted wisdom teeth. X-rays can also reveal abnormalities in the jaw joints that may contribute to TMJ disorder.
Are there precautions for radiation exposure during dental X-rays?
Dr. Far takes every precaution to ensure patient safety during dental X-rays. The digital X-rays used at The Hope Dental Care Centre emit far less radiation than traditional methods. Lead aprons and thyroid collars are also provided for additional protection. Minimal exposure is considered safe, even for children and pregnant patients, when necessary.
How do dental X-rays assist in planning treatments like dental implants or root canals?
X-rays provide essential insights for treatment planning. In the case of dental implants, X-rays help assess bone density and the positioning of nerves and sinuses, ensuring precise placement. Root canals reveal the tooth’s internal structure and the extent of infection or damage. With detailed imaging, Dr. Far can develop a customized treatment plan that maximizes success and comfort.
