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Why
do I need X-rays?
Radiographic
or X-ray examinations provide your dentist with an important tool
that shows the condition of your teeth, its roots, jaw placement
and the overall composition of your facial bones.
X-rays
can help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal
disease, abscesses and many abnormal growths, such as cysts and
tumors. X-rays can
also show the exact location of impacted and unerupted teeth.
They can pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs
of disease that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination.
Do
all patients have X-rays taken every six months?
No. Your radiographic
schedule is based on the dentist's assessment of your individual
need s, including whether you're a new patient or a follow-up
patient, adult or child. In most cases, new patients require a full set of mouth X-rays
to evaluate oral health status, including any underlying signs of
gum disease and for future comparison.
Follow-up patients then require X-rays to monitor their gum
condition or their chance of tooth decay.
What
kind of X-rays does Dr. McBride usually want to see?
Typically, most dental patients have “periapical” or "bitewing"
radiographs taken. These
require patients to hold or bite down on a piece of plastic with
X-ray film in the center. Bitewing X-rays typically determine the
presence of decay in between teeth, while periapical X-rays show
root structure, bone levels, cysts and abscesses.
We
usually take bite-wing radiographs annually and a full mouth series
every 3 years, unless there is a medical contraindication, such
as pregnancy.
My
dentist has prescribed a "panoramic radiograph."
What is that?
Just as a panoramic photograph allows you to see a broad view such
as the Grand Canyon, a panoramic radiograph allows your dentist
to see the entire structure of your mouth in a single image.
Within one large film, panoramic X-rays reveal all of your
upper and lower teeth and parts of your jaw.
Why
do I need both types of X-rays?
What is apparent through one type of X-ray often is not visible
on another. The panoramic
Xray will give your dentist a general and comprehensive view of
your entire mouth on a single film, which a periapical or bitewing
X-ray can not show. On
the other hand, periapical or bitewing X- rays show a highly detailed
image of a smaller area, making it easier for your dentist to see
decay or cavities between your teeth.
X-rays are not prescribed indiscriminately
Your dentist has a need for the different information that
each radiograph can provide to formulate a diagnosis.
Should
I be concerned about exposure to radiation?
All
health care providers are sensitive to patients’ concerns about
exposure to radiation. Dr. McBride has been trained to prescribe
radiographs when they are appropriate and to tailor radiographic
schedules to each patient's individual needs.
By using state-of-the-art technology and by staying knowledgeable
about recent advances, he and his staff know which techniques, procedures
and X-ray films can minimize your exposure to radiation.
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