X-Rays
X-rays are an important diagnostic tool used in dentistry.
At a routine check-up we regularly take x-rays to check for decay in-between the teeth and underneath existing fillings that would otherwise go undetected by visual inspection alone. They are used to check the bone supporting the teeth to assess for, and to monitor gum conditions like periodontal disease. For most patients, dentists recommend x-rays be taken approximately every two years.
X-rays are also an essential part of diagnosing tooth pain and pathology, for example an abscess. They are also used to assess root shape and size before an extraction.
We understand that people are concerned about not exposing themselves to radiation unnecessarily. Modern digital x-ray systems require significantly less radiation than older film x-rays. Interestingly, routine dental x-rays are comparable to the radiation exposure from a 1-2 hour plane flight!
