Do X-rays need to be taken at each dental visit?
Dental X-rays are helpful tools in maintaining good oral health and for detecting common dental issues early. X-rays are taken regularly to help catch cavities, gum disease, tumors, and other problems with the mouth and teeth.
Dental professionals recommend that patients receive a dental cleaning once every six months, while X-rays are recommended once a year. Dental X-rays are often taken every 12 to 18 months, or every other regular dental visit. Healthy adults can typically go about 2 to 3 years without needing new X-rays.
Whether or not you need an X-ray during a dentist appointment depends on a few factors:
Oral health history and present oral health. Those with healthier gums and teeth need X-rays less often than those who struggle with their oral health.
Age. Because adolescent’s mouths are still developing, they require more X-rays than adults, especially for detecting wisdom teeth.
Risk for disease. Those prone to gum disease will require more X-rays to monitor the disease.
If you visit a new dental office, they may take new X-rays to assess and establish a baseline for your oral health. Because of the radiation exposure, X-rays should only be taken when the dentist believes they will provide necessary information on your health.
To get up-to-date X-rays, contact Hale Family Dentistry today. We can help you have the best chance at healthy teeth and gums!