Faithfully once a year, your cheerful hygienist says, “It is time for your annual x-rays!” Have you ever asked yourself, “Why do I have to do that?” If that is a burning question for you…we have the answer!
First, let’s clarify the fancy names of these x-rays! There are three primary x-ray types in dentistry: bitewings, periapical, and panoramic.
Bitewing radiographs are not just for Batman. They capture close-up images where the back teeth touch each other. They are the most effective radiograph for finding those pesky cavities and/or bone loss. Do you have existing restorations like old fillings or crowns? We need to check those too to be sure that there is nothing lurking under the surface.
Next up, periapical! We love to call them “PA’s” because we are special like that! A periapical radiograph targets specific teeth, showing the entire tooth from the end of the root to the bone. They are effective in identifying dental problems below the gumline, impacted teeth, abscesses, or bone changes with periodontal disease.
Last, but not least, is the panoramic. This radiograph is as beautiful to us as a panoramic photograph of the Grand Canyon is to you. It is the FULL view of your mouth in one image. They are usually taken only every 3 to 5 years, or as needed for individual need. This x-ray is especially great for looking at wisdom teeth, jaw structure, identifying any under the surface infection, and nasal cavity concerns.
Ok, you are thinking…why does my dentist need all these?!?
I will give you a story to explain…
Imagine you are riding your bike one day. It is a beautiful day, and you are pedaling away, until you hit a rock and the rock wins. You go head over handlebars (but you are wearing your helmet in this story!) and skid to a stop. Things hurt, but especially your wrist. You go in to the doctor and tell them the story. What will the doctor do? Take an x-ray of the area and make sure that you have not broken any bones. Do you want your doctor just to guess and say, “Hmm, well…might be broken….I’ll put a cast on it just in case”? No, you want to KNOW if it is broken or not. Nobody likes casts, NOBODY. They are itchy and you cannot take a shower normally!
SO…that is the same with your dentist. We do not “guess” about problems. We want to KNOW. These yearly radiographs make sure that we are not blind to potential problems. (It is ALSO standard of care, so expect to have it once yearly!) No one wants to hear a dentist say, “Hmm, well…it might be a cavity….I’ll fill it just in case.” No, you want to KNOW if it is a cavity or not.
Call Svoma Design in Dentistry in Avon, IN at 317-837-8900 or email us at [email protected] to make your new patient appointment!