Why Dentists Need X-rays
I wish I had X-ray vision. But I don’t. Nor do I have the ability to fly, lift heavy objects and be in complete disguise by putting on new glasses. I digress.
A lot of patients will ask me, why do you need to take x-rays? Can’t you just see if we have gum disease or decay?
No. Because most of these problems aren’t detectable until its too late.
By taking x-rays we can see things that are hidden to the naked eye.
The x-ray on the left shows a hidden cavity in between teeth. Just by looking externally, this would be impossible to see, until the cavity is widespread.
X-rays can’t show everything
Even though we take x-rays, they may not reveal everything. Remember this is a two-dimensional image, representing a 3D object.
Additionally, if there is extensive dental work on teeth, they actually may mask any issues, because of the interactivity between the x-rays and the dental materials (fillings, crowns etc.)
When to get x-rays
According to the American Dental Association, they recommend regular x-rays every 2 years. However, this can be more or less depending on your history — whether you have had cavities in the past, or are undergoing other procedures.
But yes, we do need them to see. Unless your dentist is Superman.
Are you seeing your dentist soon? What are you worried about? Comment below!
