X-rays are an essential part of a dental health treatment plan. Not only are x-rays diagnostic, but they are preventative and help dentists detect potential oral care problems that arising. The common type of x-ray preformed by us at your routine dental visits is called intraoral because it allows Dr. Rafat, Dr. Izadi or Dr. Williams to find cavities in the early stages, see the state of developing teeth, check on tooth roots, as well as look other possible dental problems.
The frequency of receiving dental x-rays will vary for each patient. Your dentist at Valley Dental Health will look at your personal dental history, examine your mouth, and will decide whether you need x-rays. Some patients may need x-rays every six months, while other patients will not need x-rays as frequently.
During a routine visit with Valley Dental, Dr. Rafat, Dr. Izadi or Dr. Williams will visually examine all aspects of your teeth and gums. The value of receiving dental x-rays is huge and allows us to see beyond the naked eye. Dental x-rays give our dentists a high level of detail of the tooth, bone, and tissues in the mouth. X-rays also may reveal areas of decay between the teeth or under fillings, infections in the bone, developmental abnormalities, cysts, periodontal disease, and some types of tumors.
The benefits of receiving dental x-rays outweigh risks. For your safety and for a greater degree of accuracy, Valley Dental Health uses digital dental x-rays. Receiving a digital dental x-ray exposes you to a very small amount of radiation. Our digital dental x-rays are considered safe for all patients, including pregnant mothers. However, if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, let our dentists know so we can take additional care to ensure the health of you and your baby.
Dental x-rays have many benefits for your long term oral health. If you have any questions regarding dental x-rays, benefits, or associated risks, do not hesitate to discuss them with Drs. Rafat, Izadi, and Williams during your next appointment at our Hunt Valley office.