A Dentist’s Indispensable Tool

At Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington TX, providing first rate dental care is much easier when we have thorough information about our patients’ dental health.

Pictures are more accurate than written notes. Since they show what’s going on below the surface, they’re worth even more than a thousand words. Along with a thorough visual oral exam, most dentists want complete and up-to-date X-rays.

Types of X-Rays

• Bite-Wing X-rays give us a picture of the upper and lower back teeth. We can see how they touch each other and see if there is any decay.
• Panoramic X-rays give us the big picture. We can see a complete view of the teeth, jaws and jaw joints, nasal area, and even the sinuses. These are especially useful if we think the patient may need orthodontics or a dental implant.
• Occlusal X-rays show us the floor of the mouth, and the bite of the upper or lower jaw. They’re good for showing the development of teeth.

How often we take X-rays is largely determined by your age as well as the state of your dental health. Because children are growing and experience more changes to their teeth, they usually need X-rays more frequently.

Some patients worry about X-rays. They use radiation, after all. Modern X-rays are designed to minimize patient exposure. Patients only get negligible amounts, making them safe. The latest generations of X-rays reduce radiation even more. Still, we take the added safety measure of covering the patient with a heavy leaded apron and collar.

At Stephen Ratcliff Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington TX, we are committed to providing the best possible dental care. Our services include cosmetic, general, and restorative dentistry. We serve satisfied patients from Mansfield and Grand Prairie. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!