Why do I need dental x-rays?

If dentists had X-ray vision like Superman there would be no need for X-ray's. Since that is not the case X-ray's or radiographs are very necessary and valuable tool to detect things going on inside the bone and between teeth. 

There are different types of X-rays taken. Typically a full set of x-rays consists of periodicals and bitewings. Periodical X-rays help to see the health of teeth at the end of the tooth and around the tooth. Bitewing's help to see the health of teeth between the teeth. From these X-rays dentists can detect periodontal (gum) disease, cavities, abscesses/cysts, tumors, and infections. Many of these findings can be silent and asymptomatic. If caught early it can be treated early and prevent more invasive treatment and/or prevent pain.  

Dental radiographs (x-rays) are an important examination tool necessary for a complete evaluation of the patient's oral health.

There radiographs provide necessary information regarding decay on the various sides of the teeth, supporting bone structure and bone loss related to gum disease, abscesses at the tips of the teeth, changes in the bone related to the bite, impacted wisdom teeth, growths, cysts and many other pathologies that do not make for pleasant reading.

A complete set of radiographs is usually taken no more than once every five years or so.  Of course, there are circumstances that dictate that more frequent radiographic evaluation be made.  In addition, periodic cavity-detecting x-rays may be indicated, along with individual radiographs to evaluate and/or diagnose a specific problem.

It is important to remember that just because you, the patient, can't see or feel a problem, does not mean that it is not there.

Dental X-rays are done to:

• Find problems in the mouth such as tooth decay, damage to the bones supporting the teeth and dental injuries (such as broken tooth roots). Dental X-rays are often done to find these problems early, before any symptoms are present.
• Find teeth that are not in the right place or do not break through the gum properly. Teeth that are too crowded to break through the gums are called impacted.
• Find cysts, solid growths (tumors), or abscesses.
• Check for the location of permanent teeth growing in the jaw in children who still have their primary (or baby) teeth.
• Plan treatment for large or extensive cavities, root canal surgery, placement of dental implants and difficult tooth removals.
• Plan treatment of teeth that are not lined up straight (orthodontic treatment).

Without X-rays, dentists may miss the early stages of decay between teeth.

For people who have no tooth decay and are not at high risk of getting cavities:

• Adults should have bitewing X-rays every 2 to 3 years.
• Teens should have bitewing X-rays every 1½ to 3 years.
• Children should have bitewing X-rays every 1 to 2 years.

For people who have tooth decay or are at high risk of getting cavities:

• Adults should have bitewing X-rays every 6 months to 1½ years.
• Children and teens should have bitewing X-rays every 6 to 12 months.