Please see our Accessibility Notice page and install Free Assistive Technology if needed
When you settle into the dental chair for a routine check-up, you might wonder if those dental X-rays are truly necessary. It's common to question how often you need them and whether they're safe. At Central Avenue Dental, we believe in keeping your smile healthy with the most personalized, up-to-date care.
Our experienced dentists, including Dr. Alevtina Edgar, DDS, and our dedicated team provide comprehensive family dentistry in Valley Stream, New York, and New York, New York. We tailor every aspect of your visit, including how often we take images of your teeth, to your specific oral health needs. This ensures you only receive the scans you actually need to maintain a healthy mouth.
Dental X-rays are essential diagnostic tools that safely expose you to very low radiation levels to detect hidden oral health issues. They allow us to see what's happening beneath the surface of your gums and enamel, catching problems before they cause pain. Without these images, issues like deep decay, bone loss, and infections can go unnoticed for far too long. By identifying these concerns early, we can recommend conservative treatments before they turn into major dental emergencies.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, healthy adults typically need dental X-rays every six to 18 months, though this frequency increases for patients with active gum disease or frequent cavities. We evaluate your unique risk factors, including your dental history and lifestyle, to determine the safest and most effective schedule for you. If you have a history of excellent oral health, you won't need them as frequently.
You don't need to receive a new set of images at every single routine check-up. As noted by MouthHealthy, guidelines state that X-rays should only be ordered when your dentist determines they will provide necessary diagnostic information based on your individual clinical exam. We always perform a thorough physical assessment first to see if imaging is warranted.
Your safety is always our top priority, and modern dental technology makes imaging safer than ever before. In fact, the American Dental Association updated its guidelines to state that lead abdominal aprons and thyroid collars are no longer recommended for any patient because digital technology restricts the radiation beam so precisely. This advancement means you receive minimal exposure while we get highly detailed views of your teeth.
If you're due for a routine check-up or want to discuss your oral health, we're here to help. Our team is committed to providing comfortable, state-of-the-art care that keeps your teeth and gums in peak condition. Please schedule an appointment at our Midtown NYC office or visit our Valley Stream location to keep your smile on the right track.
