The Importance of Regular Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays are an essential part of routine dental checkups. They provide your dentist with critical information about your oral health that can't be detected through a regular examination. 

At Sokoly Dental in Washington, DC, Dr. Thomas D. Sokoly wants you to understand the importance of getting dental X-rays regularly. Here he explains how he uses this diagnostic tool to help manage dental concerns before they become significant problems.

Understanding dental X-rays

Dental X-rays are images of your mouth taken by one of our dental professionals that allow Dr. Sokoly to see your jawbone, inside your teeth, and under your gums. 

The X-rays help detect problems that may not be visible to the naked eye, providing a more comprehensive picture of your oral health. Dr. Sokoly can identify and diagnose dental problems early before they become more severe and more challenging and costly to treat.

What dental X-rays can tell your dentist

Dental X-rays can reveal a lot about your oral health. This includes:

Cavities

X-rays help detect cavities that may not be visible during a regular examination. This is important because early detection can prevent the need for more extensive treatments down the road.

Gum disease

X-rays expose the extent of gum disease and help Dr. Sokoly determine the appropriate treatment.

Impacted teeth

X-rays reveal whether your teeth are growing correctly or if they're impacted. Impacted teeth can lead to infections and other oral health problems.

Oral cancer

X-rays can show abnormal growths or lesions that may indicate oral cancer.

How often should you have dental X-rays?

The frequency of your dental X-rays depends on several factors, including:

Children whose teeth are still developing may need X-rays more often to monitor the growth and development of their teeth.

General guidelines from The American Dental Association recommend that adults have a full-mouth series of X-rays every 3-5 years and bitewing X-rays every 1-2 years. 

Children should have a full-mouth series of X-rays every 1-2 years and bitewing X-rays every 6-12 months.

If you're overdue for a bi-annual dental exam and cleaning, don't put it off any longer. Contact us at Sokoly Dental today.

 

You Might Also Enjoy...

Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth: What to Expect

Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth: What to Expect

If you already have sensitive teeth, you might worry that getting them whitened will only make the issue worse. Fortunately, we have a way to minimize irritation, plus tips to help with any sensitivity you might experience.
How to Avoid Sleep Apnea Complications

How to Avoid Sleep Apnea Complications

Sleep apnea can lead to some serious health issues if you let it go unchecked. Fortunately, treating it and avoiding complications might be easier than you think.