Why Do I Need Dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays are an essential part of your routine checkup appointments. But if you’re hesitant about having X-rays taken, you’ll be glad to know that they’re safer than ever. Today’s imaging technology uses about 90% less radiation than X-rays in decades past. Here are just a few reasons why our New Braunfels dentists recommend semi-regular X-rays during you or your child’s dental care:

We Can See Spaces Not Visible to the Naked Eye

Not every tooth surface is visible during your exam. Even the ones that are visible could have microscopic openings in them, with large areas of decay underneath the surface. X-rays can show us those spaces, whereas a visual exam cannot.

Problems Can be Intercepted Earlier

If you have a cavity, X-rays let us catch the decay before it turns into an abscess or major dental damage. Many times, we can find issues on X-rays before you experience symptoms. We’ll be able to enlarge the images on an in-room screen so that you can co-diagnose your conditions alongside of our New Braunfels dentists.

It Minimizes Treatment Needs

Addressing dental problems earlier means that the treatment plan will be less invasive, preserve as much tooth structure as possible, and be more affordable. Diagnostic services keep your treatment needs to a minimum.

Be Proactive About Major Issues

Complications such as cysts, tumors, impacted teeth, or major orthodontic needs may not be diagnosable without dental X-rays. Using digital imaging allows for better diagnosis that could potentially be lifesaving.

Are you due for a dental checkup? Ask which X-rays you’ll need; each type shows a different area of your anatomy and smile. We’ll be happy to answer any of your questions!