Why does my dentist insist on taking xrays?

Why does my dentist insist on taking xrays?

People are often suspect as to why dentists try to take regular xrays of their patients teeth. They feel that it is unnecessary, dangerous, harmful and purely to squeeze money out of them. Let me dispel this myth.

When we examine your teeth it is purely visual. We are highly trained and experience in how to detect problems with your teeth and mouth such as decay, infections and disease. But often there may be underlying problems that are near impossible to detect from a purely visual examination.

Decay can often be present under the surface of teeth or in between teeth. We simply cannot be expected to pick this up. Infections often present themselves at the very tips of roots, not where the naked eye can see. Gum disease is associated with loss of bone around teeth, not something you can see from a general check up.

Now the above-mentioned problems may also present with no symptoms and few signs. It therefore may well be the case that you could be sent home without any knowledge of these problems if your dentist does not take regular screening xrays. It is recommended for the average healthy patient to have screening xrays every 2 years. These will consist of two simple “bitewing” xrays which are of your back teeth. This will go a long way to detect any problems and if your dentist suspects further problems it may be recommended to take further xrays. It is vital that your dentist can obtain all the information they can in order to diagnose and treat you properly.

So, with all this in mind, if your dentist recommends that you should have your regular screening xrays make sure you agree. After all, they are a highly trained healthcare professional and only there to help you. If a problem is picked up early it may save you a lot of time, money and grief.

David Hurst BDS (Lon)