Do You Assume X-Rays Are Bad For You? Don’t.

Many people assume that x-rays are bad for you because they are full of radiation. They forego their dental x-rays for this reason, and they won’t allow their children to have dental x-rays. However, if you have a new dentist or you’re getting ready to visit your first dentist ever, he or she will likely want to take a set of x-rays to look for any underlying problems and to have a set to compare other x-rays to in the future. If you are assuming dental x-rays are bad for you, don’t.

How Much do you Know about Dental X-Rays?

Fact #1: People are often worried about the radiation associated with x-rays, but the radiation levels in dental x-rays are minimal.

Fact #2: Even though traditional x-rays have a low amount of radiation exposure, the radiation levels of digital x-rays are 80 to 90 percent lower.

Fact #3: Dental x-rays are important because they can detect early problems that are not apparent to the naked eye.

Fact #4: For the adult patient, x-rays are used to detect tooth decay, abscesses, cysts, tumors, bone loss, and implant placement.

Fact #5: Children need x-rays more often than adults because their jaw bone is still growing and their wisdom teeth have yet to erupt.

Fact #6: Dentists use x-rays to evaluate such things in children as tooth decay, whether or not there is enough space for incoming teeth, and to monitor the eruption of wisdom teeth.

Fact #7: Smokers, patients with periodontal disease, HIV, diabetes, or other health conditions, including dry mouth, may also require more frequent x-rays.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.

About The Author

Dr. Brian Evans

Dr. Brian Evans, the current owner of Wager Evans Dental, initially worked as a CPA before transitioning to dentistry to make a greater impact on people's lives. He joined his father-in-law to expand a three-decade-long legacy in the northern Nevada community, eventually taking over the practice. Dr. Evans prioritizes a comfortable environment for his patients and stays at the forefront of dental technology and medical techniques through continuous education and advanced training, focusing on oral and systemic health.

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