Why Is an X-ray Sometimes Included in a Teeth Cleaning?

A professional teeth cleaning is a necessary part of general dentistry care, but there are other important components, such as X-rays and examinations. X-rays are essential for a number of reasons, although they are not required nearly as often as routine teeth cleanings. Keep reading to find out more about the importance of X-rays. 

X-rays during a teeth cleaning

Below is an explanation of X-rays and why they may be included during a general dentistry teeth cleaning appointment.

The purpose

Most teeth cleaning appointments also include an examination, fluoride application and sometimes, X-rays. Dental X-rays may be needed because they allow the general dentist to see the teeth, the roots and the rest of the oral cavity from a different perspective. This is necessary to ensure that oral health is in good shape, which includes the gums, jawbone and teeth. 

Additionally, dental X-rays help identify problems that are deeper than the eye can see when just looking inside the mouth. If these problems are caught early o,n then it is more likely that the outcome will be positive. Outlined below are a few things that X-rays can detect during a teeth cleaning appointment.

  • Tooth decay or cavities
  • Bone loss in the jaw
  • Changes or shifting in the jawbone 
  • Abscesses 
  • Oral cancer
  • Cysts

X-rays are seen as controversial by some due to the waves of energy that are released; however, when taken rarely and quickly, individuals can rest assured that they are safe. Without dental X-rays, many oral conditions can get missed, which can result in damage to the oral cavity and even the entire body. 

How often are X-rays taken?

X-rays are typically taken once a year or every 12 months. General dentists recommend them on a routine basis, which is why they often get combined with a teeth cleaning appointment. However, if there is a concern of an oral condition, then additional X-rays may be required more than every 12 months. 

Other things to note

X-rays are a simple part of a teeth cleaning appointment. Individuals requiring X-rays need not feel anxious, as the process takes less than 10 minutes and does not involve any pain. A protective jacket is given to protect against the energy waves put off by the machine. The general dentistry assistant will press a few buttons, and then the process will be complete!

Find out more about general dentistry teeth cleanings

When looking for more information on teeth cleanings and what they entail, it can be helpful to consult directly with a general dentist. Any questions or concerns can be addressed, and an evaluation can be done in order to determine whether X-rays are needed. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with an appointment. 

Request an appointment here: https://ismiledentalcarenj.com or call iSmile Dental Care at (908) 768-3057 for an appointment in our Union office. 

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Cleaning in Union, NJ.

Related Posts

3 Signs You May Need A Dental Deep Cleaning

A dental deep cleaning is an in-depth cleaning procedure that is typically done by a dentist who offers periodontal services. These cleanings are called "deep cleanings" because they go much deeper beneath the soft tissues than a traditional cleaning would. During a dental deep cleaning, a general dentist will scrape beneath the gum tissues and…

When Your Child Needs A Dental Checkup

Some dental issues start early on, meaning your child might need a dental checkup at an early age. Even if the child is relatively young, there could be tooth decay or white spots. It means you should think about making your child’s dental appointment as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn more.If there are…

Do Electric Toothbrushes Really Clean Teeth Better Than Manual Ones?

With all of the hype over electric toothbrushes, it must be time to find out what they are all about. Most electric toothbrushes are marketed at being more efficient, easier to use, and well, obviously fancier than the standard manual toothbrush! For years, the standard manual toothbrush was the only way that people could clean…

Preventive Dentistry: Preserve Your Teeth

Using preventive dentistry to keep your teeth and gums healthy may be difficult at times. It feels better and costs less to practice prevention rather than get the cure. Many dental treatments for saving teeth are expensive and labor-intensive. Doing your part in preserving your teeth can also save your general health. If you want…

Ahmed Beheiry, DDS

Share
Published by
Ahmed Beheiry, DDS

Recent Posts

3 Ways to Know If Professional Teeth Whitening Is Right for You

Learning the difference between professional teeth whitening and generic whitening options is important for anyone…

1 week ago

Why Clear Braces Are a Popular Option for Teeth Straightening

Clear braces have less visibility than shiny metal brackets, but the wires can still be…

2 months ago

A Step-by-Step Guide to a Tooth Extraction Procedure

Tooth extraction may seem like a scary or daunting procedure. However, it is relatively safe…

2 months ago

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent you from needing a replacement,…

4 months ago

Hard Reline Versus Soft Reline for Dentures

Hard and soft denture relines are similar. In both cases, the dentist removes some of…

5 months ago

General Dentistry Tips to Prevent Bad Breath

Nobody wants to have bad breath, and more often than not, it is easily preventable.…

6 months ago