Dental X-Rays - Lincoln Family Dentistry

Dr. Jon Isaacson and Dr. Kelly O'Hara from Lincoln Familiy Dentistry in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Assessing Dental Health with Dental X-Rays

X-rays are essential tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam or cleaning. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to detect hidden dental abnormalities safely and accurately and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, hidden problem during routine dental cleanings and check-ups can go undetected.

Dental X-rays Done By Our Dentist Could Reveal:

Developmental abnormalities.
Poor tooth and root positions.
Problems inside of a tooth or below the gum line.
Abscesses or cysts.
Bone loss.
Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
Decay between the teeth.

Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and save your teeth!

Are dental x-rays safe?

Radiographic example of a dental abscess

Not only are digital x-rays safe for the patient, but they are also fast and comfortable to take, which reduces your time in the dental office. Also, because we capture the digital image electronically, there is no need to develop the x-rays, thus eliminating the disposal of waste and chemicals into the environment.

Even though digital x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered very safe, our dentists in Lincoln, Nebraska still take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation. These precautions include only taking those x-rays that are needed, and using lead apron shields to protect the body.

How often should my dentist take dental x-rays?

The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, a dental exam, signs and symptoms, your age, and risk of disease.

Nebraska Family Dentistry dentists recommend a full-mouth series of dental x-rays for new patients. A full mouth series is usually good for three to five years. We take bitewing x-rays at recall (check-up) visits and recommend them once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.