2076 North University Drive
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
Phone: 954-432-5700
Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
• Abscesses or cysts.
• Bone loss.
• Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
• Decay between the teeth.
• Developmental abnormalities.
• Poor tooth and root positions.
• Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.
Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe. Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays including the use of lead apron shields to protect the body. In addition, we use the latest in digital x-ray technology from Dexis. This allows the dentist and/or dental hygienist to obtain an x-ray with a far lower amount of radiation than the traditional film and the radiograph is available instantly for reading on a computer screen.
How often should dental x-rays be taken?
The need for taking dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend the needed x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.
A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems
