Digital X-rays provide the only means for dentists like Kaylynn Saigh, DDS, MS, to check the health and state of the areas between your teeth and the insides of your teeth. At Northwoods Pediatric Dentistry in Kingsford, Michigan, Dr. Saigh offers thorough dental care, including digital X-rays, on an as-needed basis to protect your dental health. If you haven’t had digital X-rays in more than two years or you’re due for a dental checkup, book an appointment online or call today.
Should I get digital X-rays?
Digital X-rays are a critical tool for preventive dental care. Most parts of your teeth are invisible to the naked eye. X-rays let your dentist see the inner parts of your teeth to evaluate your overall health more comprehensively.
For example, your dentist at Northwoods Pediatric Dentistry can use X-rays to make sure there’s no evidence of decay within your teeth or below a filling.
If there’s any decay lurking between your teeth, they will be able to see it, too. X-rays remain the most efficient way to determine if you are suffering from bone loss due to gum disease.
In addition to diagnosing dental conditions, your dentist uses digital X-rays to plan the placement of dental implants, orthodontic treatments, and other dental procedures.
When should I have digital X-rays?
If you have good dental health, you should have standard digital X-rays every 2-3 years. More extensive X-rays are recommended every 3-5 years to check on the health of the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place.
Children have more frequent digital X-rays because of their rate of development. X-rays help dentists see if children’s teeth require orthodontic intervention and whether the teeth are developing properly.
Are digital X-rays safe?
Digital X-rays are safe for patients of all ages and conditions. X-rays do require a small amount of radiation to create the images of your teeth and bones, but the amount of radiation needed is so tiny it puts you at almost no risk. Improvements in digital X-ray technology have greatly diminished the level of radiation required.
Dentists typically take 10-15 X-rays a day. Although they leave the room while the image is taken, they’re exposed to some radiation. Even with this increased exposure, dental professionals do not get cancer at a higher rate than any other profession.
If you are pregnant, you can still have X-rays. Your dentist at Northwoods Pediatric Dentistry covers you with a special apron and thyroid collar as a precaution.
If you are due for a dental checkup or haven’t had digital X-rays in more than two years, call Northwoods Pediatric Dentistry or book an appointment online today.