For many people, the words “dental x-ray” can evoke a sense of uncertainty. The good news is that modern dental x-rays are quick, effective, and used with great care. At Paramount Dental in Roseville, x-rays are an important tool for finding problems early and guiding the right treatment.
Why Dental Teams Rely on X-Rays
A visual examination gives your dentist a certain amount of insight into what is going on inside your mouth, but it cannot verify many of the problems that can exist beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Problems inside the teeth and jawbone are common in emergency cases. When the cause of severe pain must be found quickly, x-rays are usually the best way to diagnose the cause of the problem. The American Dental Association (ADA) confirms that radiographs are essential for diagnosis and treatment planning in dentistry.
Modern Dental X-Rays
There are big differences between the technology that was available 20-30 years ago versus what we use today at Paramount Dental Emergency Services in Roseville. Digital x-ray systems provide images of much greater quality using significantly less radiation than old film-based systems. Per ADA recommendations, the radiation beam is also limited to only the area of the mouth being imaged. X-rays are only taken when they are an aid to patient care.
Are X-Rays Safe for Children?
Many parents are concerned about dental x-rays, specifically for their children. The FDA recommends that x-ray examinations of children only be used to answer clinical questions or guide treatment. Settings for pediatric radiography are adjusted based on the size and age of the child to achieve a diagnostic image with the minimum dose necessary. Dental x-rays remain safe for children when performed with modern protocols. They play an important role in visualizing decay, tracking growth, and finding issues before they become serious.
What If You’re Pregnant?
Pregnancy introduces additional concerns regarding dental x-rays. Based on scientific data, the ADA indicates that dental radiographs remain safe for pregnant patients at any gestational period. Therefore, emergency should certainly not be delayed due to pregnancy. It is also worth noting that whenever possible, expectant mothers should inform their dentist of their pregnancy prior to receiving dental care. Communication provides your dental team with the ability to determine the optimal timing for x-rays and other procedures, along with developing a suitable course of action relative to your safety and the safety of your unborn child.
Useful, Purposeful, Effective
Dental x-rays serve a simple purpose: to locate issues that can otherwise not be diagnosed and thereby assist with preserving your overall health. Improved technology, coupled with judicious use of x-ray imaging, lowers risks for all patients, including children and expectant mothers. If you have additional questions related to the use of dental x-rays during a dental emergency, contact the team at Paramount Dental in Roseville. We are here to improve your oral health!
