Traditional Dental X-Ray Americas

Dental X-rays help dentists visualize diseases of the teeth andsurrounding tissue that cannot be seen with a simple oral exam. In addition,X-rays help the dentist find and treat dental problems early in theirdevelopment, which can potentially save you money, unnecessary discomfort, andmaybe even your life. WhatProblems Can Dental X-Rays Detect? In adults, dental X-rays can be used to: Show areas of decay that may not be visible with an oral exam,especially small areas of decay between teeth Identify decay occurring beneath an existing filling Reveal bone loss that accompanies gum disease Reveal changes in the bone or in the root canal resulting from infection Assist in the preparation of tooth implants, braces, dentures, or otherdental procedures Reveal an abscess (an infection at the root of a tooth or between thegum and a tooth) Reveal other developmental abnormalities, such as cysts and some typesof tumors In children, dental X-rays are used to: Watch for decay Determine if there is enough space in the mouth to fit all incomingteeth Determine if primary teeth are being lost quickly enough to allowpermanent teeth to come in properly Check for the development of wisdom teeth and identify if the teeth areimpacted (unable to emerge through the gums)