X-Rays: A Little Ray Goes a Long Way

Despite concerns, traditional dental X-rays are a safe and important part of a thorough dental evaluation. By viewing the inside of your teeth and accompanying oral structures, we can more effectively care for your smile.

Why are X-Rays Important?

Dental radiographs, or X-rays, provide us with valuable information because with them, we can see what’s going on beneath, between, and under your teeth and gums. We can also detect problems in existing dental work, as well as receding bone and abscesses. For instance, cavities and gum disease show up as dark places on white teeth and bone images.

Not only do X-rays help us diagnose dental problems and develop customized treatment plans, but they document your dental health status, establishing a baseline from which to monitor changes over time.

Are X-rays safe?

There is little reason to be concerned over radiation exposure from dental X-rays. With the high-speed film we use, the amount of radiation the patient experiences is less than what they are naturally exposed to from the atmosphere over a period of about eight weeks. Our radiology technicians step out of the room while X-rays are being taken only to minimize their exposure since they are using the equipment on a daily basis.