Dental X-Rays Near You
When you have an issue with your teeth, our dentist will first perform a visual examination to determine what the problem is. However, a visual examination doesn’t always provide enough information for our dentist to provide treatment recommendations. This is where dental x-rays can be beneficial. They help our dentist detect diseases and decay that are not visible to the naked eye. At Ipswich Bay Dental, we are happy to provide dental x-rays near you.
The Importance of Dental X-Rays
Also known as radiographs, x-rays allow our dentist to see inside and between your teeth. Dental x-rays are important because they allow our dentist to see everything that’s going on in your mouth. With the help of dental x-rays, our dentist can determine the condition of your teeth, their roots, and their placement in your jaw. This helps them find and treat oral health issues before they advance.
Some oral health conditions that dental x-rays can detect include:
- Dental abscesses
- Cysts and tumors
- Areas of decay beneath fillings and between teeth
- The position of the teeth
- Bone loss in the jaw
How Often Are Dental X-Rays Needed?
Everyone’s oral health status varies. Some people who have been recently diagnosed with gum disease may need x-rays every six months, whereas those who don’t have any ongoing dental issues may only need an x-ray every few years. If you are a new patient at Ipswich Bay Dental and have not had a recent x-ray, our dentist may recommend that you get an x-ray to assess your oral health.
How Safe are Dental X-Rays
Although it is clear that dental x-rays are a vital tool in diagnosing and treating oral health problems, you may still be worried about how safe they are. Dental x-rays use very low levels of radiation, making them very safe. While some radiation exposure cannot be helped, the benefits of x-rays far outweigh the risks. Our dentist in Ipswich will also provide you with a lead apron to cover your abdomen and thyroid and protect those vulnerable parts of your body from radiation.
The Bottom Line
Getting a dental x-ray may not be your idea of fun, but x-rays are vital tools for detecting dental problems early on, saving you money and pain in the long run. If you have any further questions or concerns about dental x-rays near you, please do not hesitate to contact our team at Ipswich Bay Dental.
