Dental X-Rays in Chicago

The dental x-rays we take in our offices are an important part of evaluating your overall oral health. We take and develop them during your visit, so your dentist can immediately see what is happening under the surface of your teeth and gums during treatment. Most dentists recommend that all dental patients receive x-rays on a yearly basis. There is a common misconception that x-rays are only for kids and teens who still have adult teeth below the gumline. Although dental x-rays are used to track how teeth are developing, they also are beneficial for tracking tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental X-Rays for Children, Teens & Adults

Dental X-rays are beneficial for patients of all ages. As mentioned above, dental x-rays can be used to track how your child’s teeth are coming in and make sure there are no issues with alignment or impacted teeth. X-rays are also often taken for teenagers prior to having their wisdom teeth removed. X-rays can show if a tooth is impacted (stuck in the jawline) which is valuable information for wisdom tooth removal.

How Often Do I Need Dental X-Rays Taken?

How often we take them depends on your general oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs or symptoms we may see during your exam. Children require x-rays more often than adults because their teeth and jaws are still developing and their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay. If you are a new patient, we may recommend a dental x-ray to see how you’re doing now and to help identify changes that may occur later.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

It is important to understand that dental x-rays use much less radiation than the x-rays you or your child would get at a doctor’s office. And even so, medical practices only use safe amounts of radiation when administering x-rays. At the dental office, you will likely be given a lead “bib” that will provide additional protection for your vital organs around your abdomen and chest. A lead collar is also recommended for individuals with thyroid conditions.

Contact Our Offices in Chicago To Set Up Dental X-Rays

For more information about the many other dental services we offer, please return to the Services page. And to find the All Star Dental office nearest you, please see our Locations page.