Frequency of X-rays
How often should a person have dental x-rays taken?
Every person is different and has different needs. Generally, if you are a new patient, the dentist will x-ray your mouth to examine the unseen portion of your mouth and learn of any problems you have. That initial set of x-rays, or radiographs, also will serve as a baseline for any future treatment.
The schedule for future x-rays will depend upon your general health, your age, your dental condition, and your susceptibility to dental disease. Some people develop cavities more easily than other. Others are more susceptible to gum disease. X-rays would be needed more frequently in those situations. Bone loss and early cavities will be visible on an x-ray, but not to the naked eye. Regarding age, children may need more frequent x-ray examinations because their teeth and jaws are in a state of continuing development.
In terms of additional lifetime risk from radiation exposure, conventional dental x-ray examinations (using x-ray films) are considered by experts to have negligible impact. We use digital radiographs (using a computer) which uses less than one-third of the already low radiation of conventional x-rays.
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!