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Q: Why does a dentist take x-rays?
A: The x-ray is one of your dentist's primary tools. It allows him to see what's happening beneath and inside objects vision can't penetrate. For instance, the dentist can see the roots of teeth with an x-ray. If you are a new patient, your dentist may be particularly eager to do an x-ray exam to establish a baseline picture that will help with analysis of any changes that occur later.
When x-rays pass through the mouth, more of them are absorbed by the denser portions of the mouth—like teeth and bone—than by the softer tissue—like cheeks and gums—before they strike the film. Teeth and bone appear lighter because fewer x-rays pass through them. Conversely, cavities and pockets of gum disease appear darker because more x-rays penetrate them.
The schedule for continuing x-ray exams will vary according to your age, risk for disease and, of course, your dental condition. Children may need more frequent x-rays because their jaws and teeth are still developing. Talk with your dentist about how frequently you should have an x-ray exam.
June 28 , 2010
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