X-rays allow your doctor to see any underlying issues, between the teeth and under the gums, that are not visible with the naked eye. With-out them we cannot really diagnose the state of your oral health.
Your doctor will usually wish to have regular Bitewing x-rays once per year to monitor any changes that might be taking place and a larger Panorex x-ray one time every 5 years. The Bitewing x-rays allow us to diagnose decay and check bone levels and the Panorex can point to much larger issues. With more complex treatments such as orthodontics or implants your doctor may request more comprehensive diagnostic tools such as a Cephlometric or ConeBeam CT Scan.
We understand patients concern about radiation exposure. That is why we have moved to a digital x-ray system in 2007 that only uses about 1/10th of the amount of radiation that any of the older systems used. Our equipment is maintained on a regular basis to ensure the health and well-being of our patients and team alike.