How Often Should I Get Teeth X-Rays?

Dental X-rays are used for detecting cavities that cannot be seen during visual inspections, such as decay between teeth and also for checking for bone loss or a dental infection that affects the root of the tooth.

If your overall dental health is good and you visit your dentist every few months, it is enough to have an X-ray every two or three years. However, the dental patients who belong to the following categories may need more frequent X-rays:

• Teenagers whose dentures are developing may need an X-ray every 6 months, especially if their dentures are corrected with braces.
• Patients who have very many fillings or other restorations such as implants, crowns or bridges – getting an X-ray twice a year can help prevent tooth decay in the difficult to clean areas between fillings or between the gum and the restored tooth.
• Patients suffering from gum disease – gum disease can lead to bone loss, but the process can be halted or slowed down if it is detected in time, that’s why gum disease sufferers should get their teeth and gums X-rayed every few months.
• Smokers – smoking increases the risk of developing gum disease, so smokers should have an X-ray made whenever their dentist recommends it.

For some of the best dentists in your area, look to Willow Creek Way and be on your way to a beautiful smile.

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