From time to time, our Bedford dentist may take x-rays, either to diagnose a specific problem, or simply to monitor what is happening beneath your gums.<\/p>\n
Used correctly, x-rays are safe and cause no discomfort to the patient. They are also essential to help make sure that your teeth and the underlying structure is in good shape.<\/p>\n
Whilst surface decay and some other problems are usually visible to the naked eye; without the use of x rays, many other problems would remain undetected. In today\u2019s Dental Centre Bedford blog, we take a look at some of the common uses of x-rays.<\/p>\n
Crowns and fillings<\/strong><\/p>\n Crowns and fillings are widely used to restore damaged teeth<\/a>. This does mean though, that they can also hide problems that might be happening beneath them. Through the use of x rays, we can detect if any of the underlying natural tooth is decaying, and treat it accordingly.<\/p>\n Infected root canals<\/strong><\/p>\n If a patient comes to us in pain, but with no obvious external damage, there is a likelihood that the problem is caused by an infection in the root canals of the tooth. This can only be detected using an x-ray. If an infection is detected, a root canal treatment will be needed to restore the tooth. X-rays are also important here in order to make sure that there are no abscesses present which would need treatment before any root canal therapy could start.<\/p>\n Gum disease<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Whilst patients might assume that gum disease affects only the gums; in its advanced stage of periodontitis, the underlying bone structure can also become damaged, causing teeth to become loose or fall out. An x-ray can help to determine the extent of this problem and help us to decide the correct course of action.<\/p>\n Dental implants<\/strong><\/p>\n Although 3D scans are frequently used when a patient is due to have a dental implant placement, x-rays can still help, especially in determining how healthy the bone structure is and whether a prior bone graft will be needed before an implant can be placed.<\/p>\n These are just some of the many cases where an x-ray may be needed. Patients can be assured that the level of radiation is very low and will cause no harm. We take patient safety very seriously at The Dental Centre Bedford<\/a> and are always happy to address any concerns that you might have about any procedure; so if you would like to ask us a question, or to book an appointment, please call us on 01234 819868<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Revealing hidden oral problems at our Bedford dentists. From time to time, our Bedford dentist may take x-rays, either to diagnose a specific problem, or simply to monitor what is happening beneath your gums. Used correctly, x-rays are safe and …<\/p>\n