Your dentist may suggest X-rays during regular visits from time to time. X-rays give your dentist a closer look at the teeth and gums in order to detect and diagnose any potential issues. Learn more about X-rays and why they are important for the health of your smile below.
Dental X-rays are special imaging to help your dentist look more closely and clearly at the structures in your mouth, including teeth, gums, bite, teeth roots, and other facial bones. In order to get a proper X-ray, you will have to bite down onto a piece of cardboard or plastic containing the special film. You may need to do this several times, depending on what areas your dentist needs to look at. You will wear a lead apron during the procedure to protect your body from the machine’s radiation.
Why might you need an X-ray?
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Symptoms of gum disease
- Infections inside the mouth
- Changes in teeth or facial bones
- Dental developmental problems in children
- You are seeing this particular dentist for the first time