Be Glad Dr. Ratcliff Has X-Ray Vision

Have you ever had a dental x-ray? It’s not extremely comfortable. You have to put on the heavy apron, hold a stiff piece of film in your mouth and sit really, really still while your dentist’s assistant takes x-rays. Is it really required? Absolutely! No question about it.

Your dentist can’t see everything that is going on with your teeth, bone, and surrounding tissue without x-rays.

What Hidden Problems Do Dental X-rays Detect?

• Cavities beneath existing bridgework, crowns, or other restorations
• Abscesses, cysts, and infections
• Cavities between teeth just underneath where adjacent teeth touch (interproximal cavities)
• The position of wisdom teeth

How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?
This depends on the patient. A patient with no history of cavities, no current tooth decay, no braces, and no existing crowns, veneers, or bridgework is at low risk for cavities. A high-risk patient is in the opposite situation and may have one or more of the following: a history of cavities, existing restorations, braces, thin enamel, chipped or cracked teeth. In addition, patients with an eating disorder or other medical condition may be considered high risk. People who haven’t had their wisdom teeth removed also need to be monitored with x-rays more frequently.

If you are a patient of Stephen Ratcliff Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Ratcliff will guide you on the frequency of x-rays when your treatment plan is discussed. If you are not a current patient and are looking for an experienced, friendly dentist in the Arlington area, we invite you to reach out to us at 817-678-5112 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to meeting you.