How Your Dumas, TX Dentists Use X-Rays to Protect Your Smile
Taking care of your oral health involves more than just cleanings and checkups — dental X-rays play a vital role in identifying potential issues before they become serious problems. When you visit Dr. Maher Lawand and Dr. Nagham Ghanim, trusted dentists in Dumas, TX, you may wonder what they’re looking for when examining your X-rays.
Dental X-rays are powerful diagnostic tools that allow our Dumas, TX dentists to see beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. While cavities are commonly identified through X-rays, these images also reveal other concerns like bone loss, impacted teeth, and early signs of infection. By using X-rays, Dr. Lawand and Dr. Ghanim can provide accurate diagnoses and recommend the most effective treatment plans for patients in Dumas, Cactus, Sunray, and nearby communities.
To understand how dental X-rays support your oral health, contact our dental team today by calling (806) 935-6811 and stay informed about your dental care.
The Benefits of Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays are essential diagnostic tools that allow your Dumas dentist to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. While you might only see shadowy images, Dr. Lawand and Dr. Ghanim are trained to identify a wide range of potential issues:
Detecting Cavities in Hidden Places
Not all cavities are visible during a routine examination. X-rays help dentists in Dumas, TX detect decay between teeth, under existing fillings, and deep within the tooth structure before they become painful or require extensive treatment.
Assessing Bone Health
Your Dumas, TX dentist can evaluate the bone levels supporting your teeth, detecting early signs of bone loss that could indicate periodontal disease. This allows for timely intervention to prevent tooth mobility and potential tooth loss.
Evaluating Root Health
X-rays reveal the roots of your teeth and surrounding structures, allowing your dentist to identify issues like:
- Abscesses or infections
- Root fractures
- Cysts or tumors
- Impacted teeth
Monitoring Growth and Development
For younger patients throughout Dumas and surrounding communities like Sunray, Cactus, and Stratford, dental X-rays help track the development of permanent teeth, determine if there’s sufficient space for emerging teeth, and guide orthodontic treatment planning.
Types of Dental X-Rays Used by Dumas Dentists
Dr. Lawand and Dr. Ghanim utilize several types of X-rays at their Dumas, TX dental practice:
Bitewing X-rays: These show the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth and are excellent for detecting cavities between teeth.
Periapical X-rays: These capture the entire tooth from crown to root, revealing the complete tooth structure and surrounding bone.
Panoramic X-rays: These provide a broad view of the entire mouth, including all teeth, the jaw joints, and the sinuses, which is particularly useful for planning treatments and evaluating wisdom teeth.
Cone Beam CT Scans: These advanced 3D images provide detailed views of bone structure, tooth orientation, and nerve pathways, essential for complex procedures like implant placement.
Safety Practices Used at Dumas Family Dental
Many patients from Dumas and nearby communities like Channing, Dalhart, and Hartley express concerns about X-ray safety. Rest assured that Dr. Maher Lawand and Dr. Nagham Ghanim prioritize patient safety by:
- Using digital X-ray technology that reduces radiation exposure by up to 80% compared to traditional film X-rays
- Employing lead aprons and thyroid collars for additional protection
- Following strict guidelines about frequency of X-rays based on individual risk factors
- Taking only the minimum number of X-rays necessary for proper diagnosis
When Will You Need Dental X-Rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your individual oral health needs. However, there are common scenarios when your Dumas dentist might recommend X-rays:
- During your first visit to establish a baseline of oral health
- Every 6-12 months for patients with active dental disease
- Every 1-2 years for routine monitoring in adults with good oral health
- When symptoms indicate a problem not visible during examination
- Before procedures such as tooth extractions, root canals, or dental implant placement
Schedule Your Appointment at Dumas Family Dental Today!
Whether you’re due for a routine check-up that includes X-rays or have concerns about a specific dental issue, the team at our Dumas, TX dental office is here to help. Dr. Lawand and Dr. Ghanim combine their expertise with compassionate care to make every dental visit a positive experience.
Contact our dentists in Dumas today by calling (806) 935-6811 to schedule your appointment with leading Dumas dentists committed to your optimal oral health.