How Often Does a General Dentist Recommend X-rays?

Dental X-ryas from a general dentist are an important part of the diagnostic process before the dentist begins to administer preventive treatment or treatment to deal directly with oral health concerns. The fact is dental X-rays detect issues that dentists cannot see through a routine dental examination. 

A review of dental X-rays from a general dentist

General dentists treat patients in a unique manner, and how often the patient requires dental X-rays may vary depending on the status of their oral health and treatments they are currently going through. This review should help you determine how often general dentists may recommend you receive dental X-rays.

What is the purpose of dental X-rays?

The purpose of dental X-rays is to see deeper down into the structure of teeth, gums and the jawbone to determine if there are any oral health concerns that cannot be detected by an oral examination. There are different types of dental X-rays, including:

• Bitewing
• Periapical
• Occlusal
• Panoramic
• Digital

Each type of dental X-ray has a unique purpose. Often, all types of dental X-rays are necessary, although there may be times when only one or two are required. 

How often are dental X-rays required?

Dental X-rays are typically necessary on the first visit with a general dentist and once per year after that. However, the frequency in which dental X-rays are necessary depends on the patient’s oral health. 

A patient with good oral health may only need X-rays once every other year, whereas a patient who is in the middle of an extensive treatment plan may need one every four to six months. If you see a new dentist, they may require their own dental X-rays, which is why visiting a general dentist that offers the most essential treatments is encouraged to reduce the number of X-rays that are required. 

Why are dental X-rays important for general dentists?

As mentioned, dental X-rays are important to detect oral health issues that would otherwise go undetected through an oral examination alone. Dental X-rays can show the following:

• Tooth decay
• Cysts, abscesses and tumors
• Impacted teeth
• Bone loss
• Jaw alignment
• Broken teeth

Dental X-rays allow for the earliest possible diagnosis of these concerns, which makes the treatment process easier and ensures all issues are properly addressed for good long-term oral health. 

What can I do to prepare for dental X-rays?

There are no preparations required for dental X-rays. The general dentist or dental hygienist will guide you through the process and tell you exactly what you need to do. It is non-invasive and only takes a second to complete. 

Talk to our dental team about dental X-rays and oral care today

Here at our dental practice, we do all we can to detect any oral health concerns in the earliest stages possible through dental X-rays and other diagnostic measures so that we can prevent the issue from worsening and requiring more extensive treatment. If you are past due for a dental check-up or cleaning, then contact our team today to schedule a visit.

Are you considering a general dentist in the Visalia area? Get more information at https://www.dentistofvisalia.com.

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