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Home › Everything You Wanted to Know About Bitewing X-Rays

Everything You Wanted to Know About Bitewing X-Rays
Posted on 7/15/2024 by Smile More Spokane Family Dentistry
Xray being done at Smile More Spokane Family Dentistry in Spokane, WAHave you ever wondered what those small, rectangular X-rays your dentist takes are for? Those are called bitewing X-rays, and they play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health. In this article, we'll delve into the world of bitewing X-rays, exploring their purpose, benefits, and how they contribute to preventive dentistry.

What are Bitewing X-Rays?


Bitewing X-rays are a type of dental X-ray that captures images of the crowns of your upper and lower teeth. They are called "bitewing" because you hold a small plastic tab in your mouth while the X-ray is taken, which helps position your teeth correctly. This allows the dentist to see the areas between your teeth, where decay can often develop unnoticed.

Why are Bitewing X-Rays Important?


Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health, and bitewing X-rays are an important part of this process. They allow your dentist to detect problems that may not be visible during a visual examination, such as:
•  Cavities: Bitewing X-rays can reveal cavities, even when they are small and haven't caused any symptoms. This allows for early intervention, preventing the need for more extensive and expensive treatment later.
•  Gum disease: Bitewing X-rays can show signs of bone loss, which is a hallmark of gum disease. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can prevent tooth loss and other serious complications.
•  Impacted teeth: Bitewing X-rays can reveal impacted teeth, which are teeth that are trapped beneath the gum line or bone. This information is essential for planning orthodontic treatment or other interventions.
•  Other dental problems: Bitewing X-rays can also help identify other dental problems, such as developmental abnormalities, cysts, and tumors.


How Often Should I Get Bitewing X-Rays?


The frequency with which you need bitewing X-rays depends on your individual risk factors for dental problems. Generally, most adults should get bitewing X-rays every 1-2 years. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent X-rays if you are at a higher risk for cavities or gum disease.

Are Bitewing X-Rays Safe?


Bitewing X-rays use a very small amount of radiation. The amount of radiation exposure from a single bitewing X-ray is equivalent to spending a few hours in the sun. Modern dental X-ray machines are designed to minimize radiation exposure, and the benefits of early detection of dental problems far outweigh the minimal risks involved.

Bitewing X-Rays: A Valuable Tool for Preventive Dentistry


Bitewing X-rays are a valuable tool in preventive dentistry. By providing your dentist with vital information about your oral health, they can help you stay ahead of potential problems and maintain a healthy smile for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about bitewing X-rays, don't hesitate to discuss them with your dentist.
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