Things We Look For When Looking at Your Dental X-rays
Posted on 8/1/2025 by Singing River Dentistry Madison
When you visit your dentist for a check-up, there are several steps involved in maintaining your oral health. One important step is taking dental X-rays. These images allow us to see what's going on beneath the surface of your teeth and gums, which helps us identify potential problems early on.
Here are a few things your dentist looks for when examining your dental X-rays:
Tooth Decay
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, and they can be difficult to spot without an X-ray. X-rays allow us to see the extent of the decay and determine the best course of treatment.
Bone Loss
Gum disease can cause the bones surrounding your teeth to deteriorate. This bone loss can be seen on an X-ray, which helps us assess the severity of the disease and develop a treatment plan.
Impacted Teeth
Sometimes, teeth may become impacted, meaning they are unable to erupt through the gums. This can happen with wisdom teeth, but it can also occur with other teeth. X-rays help us identify impacted teeth and determine the best way to manage them.
Abscesses
An abscess is a collection of pus that can develop at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Abscesses can cause pain, swelling, and even fever. X-rays help us locate abscesses and determine the appropriate treatment.
Tumors or Cysts
In rare cases, X-rays may reveal tumors or cysts in the jaw or mouth. These growths can be benign or cancerous, and early detection is crucial.
Overall Oral Health
In addition to looking for specific problems, your dentist also uses X-rays to assess your overall oral health. We can see the alignment of your teeth, the health of your jawbone, and the position of your nerves and sinuses.
Importance of Regular X-rays
Regular X-rays are an important part of preventative dentistry. They allow us to catch problems early when they are often easier and less expensive to treat. If you haven’t had dental X-rays in a while, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.
About Us - Madison, AL | Singing River Dentistry Singing River Dentistry is a patient-centered dental practice, devoted to helping patients of all ages improve their oral and overall health. Call us! Singing River Dentistry Madison, 7559 Hwy 72 W, Suite 105, Madison, AL 35758 - 256-562-4001 - madison.singingriverdentistry.com - 10/29/2025 - Page Phrases: dentist Madison AL -
When you visit your dentist for a check-up, there are several steps involved in maintaining your oral health. One important step is taking dental X-rays. These images allow us to see what's going on beneath the surface of your teeth and gums, which helps us identify potential problems early on.