Whenever you visit your nearest dental clinic, the expert dentist diagnoses your problem and conducts an X-ray to reach to the root cause of the problem. While some patients agree to get x-rays done, there are others who remain a little apprehensive due to the radiations x-ray emits. Indeed, dental x-ray uses a small amount of radiation. But are they actually harmful? Is X-ray actually required for diagnosis at a dental hospital? If you also have these types of questions in mind, then this blog will tell you all that you must know about a dental X-ray.
When is a Dental X-ray needed?
The first thing that the dentist would check is the initial cause of the pain. It can be caused by
- Lumps in the gums
- Oral infections and cavity
- Injuries in the teeth, jaws and gums
- Problem with the molars
- A hairline crack on the tooth causing sensitivity
The dentist will detect the problem and will conduct an X-ray to commence the diagnosis.
How is the X-ray conducted?
The popular belief goes that X-rays are not safe. But the best part is that the amount of focus area, where the X-ray will be conducted, is limited. So you need not fear a dental X-ray. Only over-exposure to or repeated X-ray radiation can lead to serious health hazards, but that is not happening here. They barely take long, and the amount of radiation used in the dental X-rays is minimal. You are guaranteed not to feel any pain or discomfort before, during or after the X-ray is conducted.
Step 1: The dentist will check your mouth and advise an X-ray.
Step 2: He takes images of your teeth and jaws, and the entire process takes only about 15 minutes.
Step 3: Wait till the dentist reads the X-ray and proceeds further with the diagnosis.
A skilled dentist would harp on getting the best shot at one go and will not repeat the X-ray time and again. Avoiding the X-ray can lead to more harm since the real cause behind the tooth problem will go unnoticed otherwise. Dental X-rays give an accurate picture of the teeth and the jaws. This helps the dentist to precisely treat an oral problem. It is also done to conduct a dental implant or to remove a wisdom tooth.
Who should avoid it?
Pregnant women, unborn foetuses and minors are strictly advised against getting an X-ray done. A dental X-ray should only be conducted in the direst of situations and only under the proper supervision of the dentist.
With the advancement in technology, X-ray experiences have become way more comfortable than what they used to be. The next time you go to your nearest dental clinic for any treatment, you need not be afraid of getting the X-ray because it is completely safe. Plus, the X-ray will ensure that your problem will be looked into with undivided attention and importance.
