Welcome to Acing Smiles Family Dental
Exams and X-Rays
Dental Exam
A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
- Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
- Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
What are Dental X-Rays?
X-rays are essential in keeping track of underlying problems and development concerning your oral health. These x-rays can check for cavities, infections, impacted teeth and other issues that may go unnoticed otherwise. Dental x-rays use an incredibly minimal amount of radiation, so they’re safe for all patients. You will have x-rays taken at the majority of your appointments.
Why are Dental X-Rays needed?
You may need x-rays taken if you come into our office for an emergency. We work to take the x-rays quickly so that we can determine the problem you’re experiencing and offer treatment. Most of your dental appointments will involve taking x-rays. We advise having a full set of x-rays taken every few years.
What can Dental X-Rays detect?
Dental x-rays can detect a range of different intra-oral conditions and may be needed for certain procedures. We will always let you know if you need to have x-rays taken before or after a procedure. Some of the things these x-rays can check for include:
- Cavities
- Infections
- Bone loss
- Impacted teeth
- Restorations
- Teeth that have been root canaled
- Soft tissue abnormalities
What happens when having Dental X-Rays taken?
We first bring you into the office and seat you comfortably. A lead apron is draped over your body to refract any radiation. A small device is placed inside of your mouth and a larger machine is aimed at this device. The x-ray is taken and the image will show immediately on our computer screens. The device is then moved to another area of the mouth and another x-ray will be taken. The amount of dental x-rays needed will depend on the procedure being done and your appointment. Every few years, we will recommend having a full set of x-rays taken so that we can fully monitor the health of your teeth and gums. These x-rays use a small amount of radiation so that they’re fully safe.
If you need to have new dental x-rays taken, call our office today and we will be happy to get you in for an appointment.