Marin Heyer 
Dental x-rays are an essential part of today’s dentistry practice. Along with your regular check-up, your dentist in Maryville, TN, uses the x-rays to see if anything is wrong with your teeth and mouth, especially cavities or any signs of gum disease.
Remember that early detection is critical! And dental x-rays most often help in the early diagnosis of various dental conditions. But some people wonder whether or not these radiation sessions could be detrimental to their health in long run.
The short answer is that dental x-rays are safe when they’re used as they should be. It is true that dental x-rays generate radiation, but the amount of radiation that your body is exposed to is very, very small! The amount of x-ray radiation you are exposed to in a dental office is equivalent to the amount from a 30-minute plane flight. And the benefits you receive from the dental checkup and x-rays far outweigh any potential risk. So, it is way better for you to proceed with your regular checkups using dental x-rays, so that any problems can be identified early on.
How Often Should Dental X-Rays be Taken?
Dental x-rays are taken when your dentist needs to detect tooth and gum diseases. For example, with the help of x-rays, the dentist can see cavities underneath the surface of a tooth or the extent of gum disease and how it is affecting the teeth. The frequency at which you need dental x-rays depends on your overall health, as well as your risk factors for oral diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis.
If you have a history of gum disease or other dental problems, you may need x-rays more often. However, if you are in good health and have no risk factors for dental disease, your dentist may not recommend x-rays more often. In most cases, dentists only recommend dental X-rays if they feel that an in-depth valuation is required.
And in case you have any dental restorations done, like fillings or dental crowns, you may need dental x-rays more often. Dentists use x-rays to check for any changes in the appearance of your teeth or bone structures after the restoration. Moreover, dental x-rays may also be needed to see if the dental restoration is placed properly. Without x-rays, it would be difficult for dentists to review your dental restorations.
