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Dental X-Rays

Dental radiographs (X-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam.  Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan.  Without X-rays, problem areas may go undetected.

Dental X-rays may reveal:

  • Abscesses or cysts.
  • Bone loss.
  • Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.
  • Decay between the teeth.
  • Developmental abnormalities.
  • Poor tooth and root positions.
  • Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line.

Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!

Are dental X-rays safe?

We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment.  The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of X-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.

Dental X-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe.  Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental X-rays.  These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each X-ray.

How often should dental X-rays be taken?

The need for dental X-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs.  Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.

A full mouth series of dental X-rays is recommended for new patients.  A full series is usually good for three to five years.  Bite-wing X-rays (X-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.

Frequently Asked Questions
About Dental X-Rays in Bonham, TX

Dental X-rays allow Dr. Ramchand to see structures beneath the surface of your teeth and gums that cannot be observed during a visual examination alone. They are essential for detecting hidden tooth decay, bone loss, infections, abscesses, cysts, tumors, and developmental abnormalities. Early detection through X-rays can prevent minor issues from becoming serious and costly problems.
Yes. Modern dental X-rays, especially the digital radiographs used at Bonham Sunshine Dental, produce extremely low levels of radiation. A typical dental X-ray delivers less radiation than you receive from a single day of normal environmental exposure. Protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are used as an additional safety precaution during every X-ray.
The most common types include bitewing X-rays, which detect decay between teeth; periapical X-rays, which show the entire tooth from crown to root tip and surrounding bone; panoramic X-rays, which capture a full view of both jaws; and CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scans, which provide three-dimensional imaging for implant planning and complex cases. Dr. Ramchand selects the appropriate type based on your diagnostic needs.
Dental X-rays during pregnancy are generally safe, especially with the low radiation levels of digital imaging and the use of protective lead aprons. However, elective or routine X-rays are typically postponed until after delivery unless there is an urgent clinical need. Always inform our team if you are pregnant or think you may be.
The recommended frequency varies based on your oral health status, age, risk for disease, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. New patients typically need a comprehensive set of X-rays for baseline evaluation. Routine patients may only need updated X-rays every 12 to 24 months. Dr. Ramchand follows evidence-based guidelines to ensure X-rays are taken only when clinically necessary.