X-Rays During North Phoenix Dental Exams

Occasionally patients express concerns to their North Phoenix dentist regarding the use of dental x-rays. They are apprehensive about being exposed to radiation. Newer x-ray machines and methods keep radiation exposure to a minimum. Today’s modern dental equipment is designed to focus the x-ray beam only where needed, minimizing any unnecessary exposure. Many North Phoenix dentists now make use of digital radiography and high-speed film to further minimize radiation exposure. This technology uses an electronic sensor in lieu of X-ray film. These sensors are much more sensitive and require 50 to 80 percent less radiation than film. For further precaution your body will be covered with a lead apron with a collar that also protects your neck.

X-rays are necessary to find problems in the mouth that are not visible to the naked eye, such as small cavities in between the teeth. But cavities aren’t all your dentist is concerned with. He will perform a thorough dental exam, including x-rays to rule out cysts, tumors or other types of oral cancer. In addition, x-rays will be needed if an abscess tooth, bone fracture or bone erosion is suspected. X-rays are also required in preparation for the placement of dental implants and dental braces. In all, dental x-rays show the teeth, bones and tissue beneath the surface where your dentist cannot see, assisting him in determining the best course of treatment for you.

In addition, x-rays can help your North Phoenix dentist determine the best treatment for teeth that are not erupting properly, possibly due to crowding, and devise treatment plans, including braces for teeth that are misaligned. Without the use of x-rays your North Phoenix dentist could miss many of these conditions when they are in their early stages and often more easily corrected.

The American dental Association recommends a dental exam and cleaning 2 to 3 times a year, full mouth x-rays approximately every three years and bitewing x-rays every year. These are general recommendations and the patient’s specific circumstances will dictate the recommendations of the dentist. If you suffer with tooth decay, you may be considered high risk and your dentist may recommend bitewing x-rays every six months. Bitewing x-rays show the upper and lower back teeth where cavities, gum disease, and bone loss more commonly begin. Additionally, bitewing x-rays show whether the teeth come together properly, or if there is a malocclusion present that may require braces. Your dentist utilizes x-rays as an indispensable tool necessary to maintain your oral health.

The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements has stated that radiation exposure associated with dentistry is a very small part of the total exposure people receive from all sources. Exposure in dental settings is lower than that of hospitals. According to the American dental Association dental x-rays are extremely safe although they do require extremely low levels of radiation, the necessity in maintaining good oral health in order to maintain the health of the entire body far outweighs the small risk.

Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead utilizes the latest dental equipment and techniques. Dr. Ceyhan has been practicing dentistry for over twenty years and during that time has consistently pursued continuing education while also at teaching at Midwestern University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Ceyhan knows that it is important to stay up to date on the latest dental equipment and treatments in order to provide his North Phoenix patients with the best possible care.

Dr. Greg Ceyhan – Dentist