Every now and then, I encounter a patient that refuses X-rays. This always makes me feel uncomfortable, because I feel that the patient feels does not trust my recommendation. It is then my job to educate my patients on the importance of Dental X- Rays. Dental X-rays help me visualize diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissue that sometimes can not be seen during oral exam. It’s imperative to treating and detecting problems early in their development. Our office focuses on preventative care that can potentially save you money, unnecessary discomfort, and maybe even your life.
What Problems Can Dental X-Rays Detect not visible to the naked eye?
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Areas of decay that may not be visible with an oral exam, especially small areas of decay inter proximally or between teeth
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Decay occurring beneath an existing filling
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Bone loss that can indicate periodontal disease
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Root canal that is infected
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Guided assistance to for treatment of dental implants, braces, dentures, or other dental procedures
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Reveal an abscess
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Reveal other developmental abnormalities, such as cysts and some types of tumors, that can potentially be life threatening
Dental X-Rays are just as important for children. They can detect:
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If there is enough space in the mouth to fit all incoming teeth
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If Permanent teeth are coming in properly
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Wisdom teeth and identify if they are impacted
The frequency of getting X-Rays varies in patients depending on your medical, dental history and current condition. If you are a new patient, your office requires X-Rays as part of the initial exam and to establish a baseline record. Dental insurances cover diagnostic X-Rays as a part of your preventative treatment. I have some patients that are concerned with the radiation associated with X-Rays. Our office offers that latest in technology, our Digital X-rays are at least 90% less radiation than conventional film X-Rays.
Patients have the choice of whether or not to proceed with recommended digital X-Rays. Patients can refuse any diagnostic test or treatment. However, dentist we cannot provide care for patients based on an incomplete diagnosis without becoming subject to liability for failure to diagnose or treat existing conditions. This becomes a serious matter for the us and we will not treat you blindly.
