You have to put on the heavy apron, hold a stiff piece of film in your mouth and sit still while your dental assistant takes x-rays. Is it really necessary?

It’s not extremely enjoyable. You have to put on the heavy apron, hold a stiff piece of film in your mouth and sit really, really still while your dentist’s assistant takes x-rays. Is it really necessary? Absolutely! No question about it.

Your dentist can’t see everything that is going on with your teeth, bone, and surrounding tissue without x-rays.

What Hidden Problems Do Dental X-rays Detect?

Cavities below existing bridgework, crowns, or other restorations
Abscesses, cysts, and infections
Cavities between teeth just beneath where adjacent teeth touch (interproximal cavities)
The position of wisdom teeth

How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?
This depends on the dental patient. A patient with no history of decay, no present tooth decay, no braces, and no existing crowns, veneers, or bridgework is at low risk for cavities. A high-risk patient is in the opposite situation and may have one or more of the following: earlier tooth decay, existing restorations, braces, thin enamel, chipped, or cracked teeth. In addition, patients with an eating disorder or other medical condition may be considered high risk. People who haven’t had their wisdom teeth taken out also need to be overseen with x-rays more frequently.