21
Oct
How dental x-rays help improve your oral health
Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your dentist examines your mouth so an X-ray examination can reveal important additional information:
For example, X-rays can help show:
- Small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing fillings
- Infections in the bone
- Gum disease
- Abscesses or cysts
- Developmental abnormalities
- Some types of tumors
The way they work is that more X-rays are absorbed by the denser parts (such as teeth and bone) than by soft tissues (such as cheeks and gums). This creates an image called a radiograph.
Tooth decay, infections, and signs of gum disease appear darker because of more X-ray penetration. The interpretation of these radiographs allows the dentist to safely and accurately detect hidden abnormalities.
The frequency of X-rays (radiographs) will depend on your specific health needs.
Your dentist will review your history, examine your mouth, and decide whether you need radiographs and what type.
When you are a new patient, the dentist may recommend radiographs to establish how the hidden areas of your mouth currently look to help identify changes that occur later.
X-rays can help identify and treat dental problems at an early stage, and so can save time, money, and unnecessary discomfort.
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Angelica P. Summer, DPD, has been a Licensed Denturist in Seattle, Washington, since 1996. She has owned and operated A Dental and Denture in North Seattle since 1999. She completed her education at the University of the East and specializes in creating all types of dentures while you wait. Angelica is an active member of the Washington Denturist Association, National Denturist Association, and International Federation of Denturists.
Isabella Amar, DDS, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Math from the University of Washington and completed her doctorate from the UW School of Dentistry. During her academic career, she won Outstanding Scholastic Achievement and
Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society recognitions. Her approach to dental care is to provide the most optimal quality of treatment, creating a gentle experience and comfortable environment by forming personal connections with her patients and following up to ensure long-lasting results. She is also fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese.
Fawaz Hatem, BDS, MSD, is an Oral Medicine Specialist with over 20 years of experience. He completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery in Baghdad, Iraq, and obtained a Master’s degree from the UW School of Dentistry and further training from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Dr. Hatem has specialized training in Invisalign orthodontic treatment, sleep dentistry, teeth whitening, and administering Botox and dermal filler injections to enhance facial aesthetics and relieve TMJ symptoms. He is proficient in Arabic and English.
Dental Implant Specialist Kevin La, DDS, received his doctorate from UCLA School of Dentistry and his postgraduate qualification – an AEGD certificate – from the UPenn School of Dental Medicine. He is an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and is now a mentor for Associate Fellow Candidates. He is also a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/ Implant Dentistry. The latter designation is the highest level of competence in implant dentistry. Dr. La serves as a mentor in study clubs and implant training courses. He is now in the teaching faculty at the Pacific Implant Academy (PIA) and co-director for the PIA Implant Live Surgery Course in Tijuana, Mexico.
All providers have years of experience and expertise in their respective areas and are focused on continuing education to provide the best services for their patients. They aim to bring beautiful, healthy smiles to everyone in Seattle, WA.