Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays show decay between teeth, bone loss and problems below the gumline that no visual examination can reveal.
An examination shows the surfaces of your teeth. X-rays show everything else: decay starting between two teeth that are touching, infection at the tip of a root, bone loss from gum disease, and teeth that have not come through yet.
Why they are taken
- Decay between teeth, where it is invisible until it is large
- The height and condition of the bone supporting your teeth
- Infection or abscess at the root of a tooth
- The position of teeth that have not yet erupted, including wisdom teeth
- Whether existing fillings, crowns or root canal treatment are still sound
How often
There is no single interval that suits everyone. It depends on your age, your history of decay and what your last set showed. X-rays are taken when there is a question they can answer — not to a fixed schedule.
Common questions
- Are dental x-rays safe?
- The radiation dose from dental x-rays is very small. Standard protective measures are used, and images are taken when there is a clinical reason for them. If you are pregnant or think you might be, tell us before your appointment.