How do you know when you need a dental x-ray?
This list will give you an idea when you should get dental x-rays. After all, dental x-rays are key in ensuring your dental health is in tip-top shape.
How Often Should You Get an X-Ray
Typically, if you’re seeing a dentist for the first time and if you haven’t had an x-ray yet, your dentist will ask you to get some. This will give them a better view of your teeth structure, placement, and any issues that can’t be seen on a routine dental exam. Afterwards, you may be required to get dental x-rays every two to three years.
There are, however, certain cases when you need to get dental x-rays for at least every six months. These are some conditions that require you to get frequent x-rays:
- Children with growing and developing teeth may need to get frequent x-rays especially if they are at high-risk for tooth decay.
- Adults who had extensive restorations done. Those who had fillings, bridges, crowns and implants may need to get x-rays so your dentist can see if you have decay hidden beneath your fillings.
- People at high risk for bone loss. People who have gum disease as well as those who are heavy smokers need to get regular x-rays to monitor their condition and watch out for further complications of their periodontal disease.
- People with xerostomia. People who have dry mouth due to medication and other health conditions are at high risk for cavities, which need to be identified and treated immediately.
- High Risk Cases. If you tend to get holes more frequently in your teeth, you will be getting dental x-rays more frequently. This is so we can get on them earlier, rather then losing your tooth altogether later.
If you fit the following criteria or haven’t had dental x-rays for the past 3 years, you may consider getting a dental x-ray. Schedule an appointment with us today.
About The Author: Dr. Luke Heazlewood - Currimundi dentist
I'm a dentist who believes that affordable health care is the right of every individual. Book an appointment with me and my team. We listen, and collaborate with you on the best path forward for your teeth: https://batteryhilldental.com/book
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