Do I need to have Dental X-rays?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 100 million dental x-rays are done each year in the United States. These x–rays provide your dentist with a vital tool that shows the condition of your teeth including roots, jaw placements, and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-ray machines only produce radiation during operation and the amount of radiation used is small. Dental x-rays allow dentists to: Detect problems in the mouth such as tooth decay, damage to the bones supporting the teeth, and dental injuries (such as broken tooth roots). Detect teeth that are abnormally placed or don’t break through the gums properly. Evaluate the presence and location of permanent teeth growing in the jaw of a child who still has baby teeth. Plan treatment for large or extensive cavities, root canal surgery, placement of dental implants, and difficult tooth removals. Plan for orthodontic treatment, like braces.