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| What
most people call X-rays are actually X-ray photographs (also known
as radiographs). An image is made using X-rays, which are similar
to sunlight, but of a shorter wavelength, and able to show us what's
below the surface of a tooth. Even though we call them X-rays, we
are actually referring to the image created by X-rays. |
Why are Dental X-rays Necessary?
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| X-rays
are the only way to identify problems that aren't externally visible.
X-rays are very essential in doing a complete and thorough dental
examination. They are especially important in diagnosing serious
conditions early to allow for effective treatment before you experience
discomfort. X-rays show bone anatomy and density, decay between
the teeth or how extensive the decay is, whether an abscess is present,
impacted teeth, or if children have permanent teeth. t. |
| No cavity on first x-ray. |
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Months later, cavities that start |
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This cavity was detected and filled before the patient felt
any discomfort, and before the nerve became infected or the
tooth became abscessed. There is another cavity shown in
the X-ray on the right. Can you find it? It's difficult for
the untrained eye to spot. If you think you know where it
is, send an e-mail to
helpdesk@dentistryportal.com
and we will tell you if you're right! (Hint: It's not the left edge
of the top left tooth. That's just the edge of the frame around
the X-ray). |
How Often Do I Need Dental X-rays?
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| The
number and type of X-rays you will need depends on several factors
such as age, current dental health, and external signs that may
trigger a cause for concern. We are sensitive, however, to your
concerns about exposure to radiation, and we only perform those
X-ray procedures that are necessary for your continued dental health. |
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Dental X-rays are very safe. They are taken at fast speeds with
low radiation. A special lead apron is used to further reduce exposure.
Everyone is exposed to a certain level of "background"
radiation every day. Background radiation comes from many sources,
including the sun. The amount of radiation from dental X-ray photographs
(two views) is approximately equivalent to only two days of exposure
to background radiation. In other words, you receive as much radiation
in two days of normal activity as you do from two bite-wing X-ray
photographs. If you are curious about panoramic X-ray photographs,
they are equivalent to only about eight days of background radiation.*.
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