Dental x-rays are a tool that dentists use to dedect if you have decay on a tooth or if there are any problems below the gumline of your teeth. They are a necessary tool for the dentist because he or she cannot physically see between teeth or under the gumline with the naked eye. There are different types of x-rays that dentists use and the frequency used depends on needs of the patient.
1) Bitewing x-rays are four films taken of your molar teeth. These are the most common and typically prescribed by your dentist every one to two years.
2) Full mouth x-rays will be a series of films that take x-ray of all your teeth and will typically be taken every 3-5 years.
3) Panoramic is a full head x-ray that is taken every 3-5 years and is especially usefull to see wisdom teeth.
4) Periapical is a single x-ray that a dentist will take when he or she wants a x-ray of a specific tooth.
Are your films up to date? If you are planning a dental vacation in the near future be sure your x-rays are up to date. It is the best tool that a dentist can use to give you an accurate diagnosis. Also, with digital technology x-ray can be e-mailed. So if you are planning to see a foreign dentist make sure your x-rays are current for them to make a good diagnosis for you.
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