Sometimes your dentist needs a clearer picture of what is going on in your mouth. Dental X-rays will provide images of your jaw, gums, teeth, and other parts of your mouth. A low-level radiation X-ray machine is used to capture these images.
By identifying dental problems, such as tooth decay, impacted teeth, and cavities, we can provide better care to our clients. It can also evaluate the structure of your teeth and determine whether or not existing restorations are still in good condition.
1. Dental X-Rays Can Spot Cavities
A dental x-ray may be needed to determine exactly where a cavity has formed, especially if it forms between your teeth. A cavity is an opening or hole in the hard surface of your tooth that has caused permanent damage.
Commonly called dental decay, these can be caused by a multitude of factors, such as bacteria living in your mouth, excessive snacking, sugary drinks, and not brushing or flossing your teeth regularly.
2. The Extent of any Gum Disease
X-rays of the teeth and gums can show diseases of the mouth that might otherwise go undetected. These conditions include, for example, an abscess, or an infection at the root of your tooth or in your gums. It’s important to identify these areas of decay as early as possible. When your dentist suspects you have a more serious case of gum disease, they can use an X-ray to study the extent of the damage.
3. Issues With Old Dental Work
In most dental practices, X-rays are used to check for tooth decay, but they can also be used for other purposes. They can help detect potential decay beneath existing fillings, changes in the bone caused by infection, bone loss in the jaw, and the overall condition of the teeth.
Dental X-rays can also provide an image of your jaw bone. This is an important tool to help your dentist assess older dental implants. It can also identify abscesses, cysts, and even certain tumors.
Final Word
Our team uses dental X-rays as both a preventative and diagnostic tool. The information provided by these procedures can help us accurately diagnose and detect problems that are otherwise hidden.
Dental X-rays are just one of a comprehensive set of tools we use. They help us provide our patients with more accurate treatment plans. If you are suffering from any of the issues addressed in this article. Click here to schedule a dental x-ray in Pekin, IL.
Content found on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please speak with a professional if you have concerns about your oral health.
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