FREQUENCY OF X-RAYS
Q: How often should a person have dental x-rays taken?
A: Generally, if you are a new patient, the dentist will take x-rays of your mouth to examine the unseen portion and learn of any problems you have. That initial set of X-rays, or radiographs, will also serve as a baseline for future treatment.
The frequency of future X-rays will depend on your general health, age, and dental condition. For instance, if you suffer from gum disease, x-rays may be necessary more frequently to check on the condition’s progression. Bone loss will be visible on an X-ray but not to the naked eye. People who are more susceptible to cavities also need X-rays taken more frequently. People not susceptible to gum disease or decay don’t require X-rays as often.
Regarding lifetime risk from radiation exposure, dental X-ray examinations are considered by experts to have negligible impact. In our office, we take digital X-rays. Those generate about one-third of the radiation of traditional X-rays. They offer several other advantages too. They are visible immediately on a computer screen. They are much larger than conventional film X-rays, so it is much easier to see things on them. They don’t degrade over time. They can be sent to specialists or insurance companies electronically.
If you, your family, or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!
Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda,
39 Milford Drive, Hudson, Ohio 44236. 330-650-0360.