The truth is that there are no set limitations on how many x-rays can be taken within a month. The general concern is typically about how much radiation from x-rays is safe for patients. It's important to note that modern digital dental x-rays actually expose patients to 90 percent less radiation than traditional film x-rays used by dentists in the past.
Dr. Bray typically recommends that bite-wing x-rays be taken once each year as a baseline guide for protecting our patient's dental health. A full-mouth panoramic x-ray is normally only updated every five years unless needed for specific treatment planning. So, unless an x-ray is required to diagnose a tooth emergency, multiple x-rays within a short period are not recommended for a patient.
Why Dental X-Rays Are Important
X-rays give Dr. Bray a look at what's going on internally with your teeth. X-rays can provide insights into things that can't be seen with the naked eye. Yearly bite-wing x-rays allow us to monitor any changes in your teeth from year to year and help us spot problems like tooth decay and gum disease as early as possible.
A panographic x-ray provides a complete view of all your teeth, jaw joints (TMJ), and sinus structures with one image. The image we take every five years also provides a baseline to monitor your dental health. Dr. Bray might also order a panographic x-ray to help plan procedures, such as orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®, dental implants, tooth extraction (especially wisdom teeth), and root canal treatment.
A periapical x-ray is used when you're experiencing a dental emergency. It's one close-up x-ray of the troubled tooth that helps Dr. Bray diagnose the proper treatment procedure to get you back on the path to wellness.
Contact Our Family Dentist in High Point
If you have questions about dental x-rays, contact your High Point dentist at (336) 883-1371 for more information.