Preventative Dentistry

X-Rays

How Often Should You Get Dental X-Rays?

The best answer to this question is that it depends on several factors. For instance, a man in his forties will not need as many X-rays compared to a 20-year-old with poor oral habits. Here are some of the conditions that dictate how often you need X-rays.

High Cavity Risk

If you are at higher cavity risk, you will need X-rays during almost every dental visit. Some people take care of their teeth but still develop cavities, while others take minimal care and are okay. Despite these two exceptions, most people with high cavity risks do not maintain regular dental hygiene.

If you fall under this category, the dentist will require X-rays to help them observe beneath your enamel. X-rays allow the dentist to keep track of any developing cavities and any new ones. They can also tell a lot about any fillings and implants you have.

Gum Disease

You will need frequent dental X-rays if you have gum disease, especially with advanced periodontitis. Periodontal disease attacks the structures that support the teeth in the jaw. The dentist uses X-rays to see how much the disease has progressed and know what steps to take in treatment.

X-rays help the dentist see what structures have been damaged by the disease. They also work as a reference point when the dentist is performing restorative treatments. Specifically, the X-rays work as a map for the underlying structures.

Other Factors That Determine X-Rays

Age is another determining factor in how often you need dental X-rays. Here are some age groups and how often they need dental X-rays.

Adults

If an adult has had many dental procedures such as implants, bridges, and fillings, they may need dental X-rays more often. The dentist will use X-rays to check if any cavities or decay are forming underneath.

If you have a high-sugar diet, you will require dental X-rays more often. If this is the case, you may need X-rays every six to eighteen months. But if you have a less sugary diet, you will need X-rays every 24 to 36 months.

Children and Teens

A child who eats many sugary treats or has had fillings may need X-rays twice or once a year. When your child is below 12 and has not had fillings, they may only need the X-rays once a year or every two years. As they grow into their teens, they will need X-rays every one-and-a-half years to three years.

Cleanings

Why You Need Dental Cleaning

Dental cleanings are necessary even if you take proper care of your teeth. Dental practitioners have the necessary tools, resources, and training to clean areas that are difficult to reach. These enable them to reduce the risk of accumulating tartar and plaque.

Dental cleanings ensure potential dental problems do not worsen and become tooth decay or cavities. Our specialist can also remove stains and tartar that you cannot remove by yourself.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Different practitioners can do teeth cleaning differently. However, the following are the basic steps that often apply. The dental cleaning process takes less than one hour.

During cleaning or scaling, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. They will clean the areas of the mouth that are hard to reach by using unique tools that scrape off the stubborn plaque. They will use flossing tools and techniques to clean the spaces between the teeth.

Your dental hygienist can use a prophy jet. The tool uses water, pressurized air, and abrasive powders to remove stains, soft debris, and plaque. After doing so, they will rinse your mouth.

Or, your specialist will polish your teeth using dental paste on a rotating head to help shine your teeth. They will then apply a fluoride treatment to prevent cavities. After the treatment, your specialist may discuss dental hygiene and the ideal products you can use at home to keep your teeth healthy.

How Often Do You Need Dental Cleaning?

How often to get a dental cleaning depends on the oral needs of a patient. Some people are more prone to dental problems. Therefore, seeing a dentist is often necessary. However, others hardly get any dental issues. They may need dental cleaning less frequently.

Dental cleaning appointments should happen every six months, according to general guidelines. However, some patients may need the cleanings done every three months or every nine or 12 months.

How to Know You Need a Dental Cleaning?

The best way to know if you need a dental cleaning is to have your dentist examine your gums and teeth. They will check for signs of softening enamel or decay. They can also check for signs of gum disease by measuring the health of their gums per tooth. They will also check the condition of dental appliances or fillings that you may have.

Routine Exams

Upon Arrival

When you arrive at your dentist’s office, a receptionist will welcome you. At this point, you must complete the required forms. You need to provide the following details:

• Your medical history
• Information about your insurance
• Any medications you are using presently

Cleaning Your Teeth

After filling out these forms, you will proceed to the exam room to meet your dentist. Your dental history will be briefly discussed first, along with any potential worries you may have. Any concerns you may have about your teeth and oral health are a good idea to express at this time. Then your dentist will begin cleaning your teeth.

Dentists use specialized tools to eliminate tartar or plaque buildup from your teeth. They will particularly focus on hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. It is usually pleasant throughout this phase. However, you can experience some pressure or discomfort.

Taking X-Rays of Your Teeth

Your dentist might take X-rays of your teeth once they are spotless. X-rays often detect issues that may not be noticeable during a visual exam. These include bone loss, cavities, and other dental health issues. The X-ray process usually takes only a few minutes and is painless.

Performing a Visual Examination of Your Teeth

After the X-rays, your dentist will visually check your gums and teeth. They will look for any signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental issues. In some cases, they may also perform a screening for oral cancer. It entails checking for any abnormalities in your mouth and throat.

Discussing the Results

During the final stage, your dentist will discuss the findings with you. If there are any issues, they will discuss possible treatments, including filling a cavity or more in-depth cleaning. They may also provide tips and recommendations for better oral hygiene. They will give advice on flossing and brushing techniques or using mouthwash.

Conclusion

Routine dental visits are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Teeth cleaning and X-rays are two important procedures during these visits. The dentist can detect dental issues before they become serious. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment.

Regular dental checkups can save you from more extensive dental work in the future. These dental checkups are instrumental in keeping your teeth in tip-top shape for years. So, do not forget to schedule your next dental visit to maintain that sparkling smile.