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Why Dental X-Rays Are Needed Before Getting Braces

Behind many otherwise brilliant smiles, there may be teeth that need straightening and repositioning. Luckily, technology is available to help those who suffer from teeth misalignment. X-rays can show the shape of how teeth are coming in and help guide orthodontists in how to help reshape for maximum effect.

The process of installing braces entails more than binding bands, sticking brackets, or connecting wires. Anyone who has braces on knows the thorough examination necessary to give any patient the perfect fit for their braces. Part of this procedure is examining one’s teeth via a dental x-ray.

Dental x-rays are tools for diagnosis

Not all oral ills are visible to the naked eye. Dental dilemmas can be present in the gums, beside tooth roots, and in between the narrow crevices of your teeth. Your dentist, no matter how experienced, can only see so much with the naked eye. This is where dental x-rays come in. Through x-rays, your dentist can get a clear picture of how your teeth look from the inside out. Through dental x-rays, many teeth troubles that go beyond cavities and decayed teeth are more easily weeded out.

A dental x-ray examination is a must before any orthodontic procedure. Through dental radiographs, your dentists get a clear visualization of any deformities. Dental deformities such as overcrowding, tumors, or the development of pathogens have to be treated first before installing braces. When overlooked, such defects may worsen your dental troubles.

Rest assured that at South Airdrie Smiles, we only use digital X-rays which produce the lowest possible dose of radiation

Dental X-Rays Help Track Progress

Installing braces isn’t a one-time big-time thing. The process does not end the moment you leave the clinic right after your braces have been successfully installed. It takes months or even years of thorough monitoring before the process comes to a close. To do this, your dentist will need the help of dental x-rays to aid in the examination.

Braces help reposition your teeth. Dental x-ray imagery from past consultations is compared to more recent ones to see how much your teeth have realigned. These records tell your dentist which way to go. Whether your braces have to be tightened, loosened or altered altogether depends on the records your dental x-ray images show.

In a nutshell

Braces not only serve the purpose of repositioning your teeth. They change the shape of your mouth and sketch an even more beautiful smile on your face. Dental x-rays are done to diagnose and monitor what goes on in the patient’s mouth. It pays to remember that doctors on their own can only do so much. Various instruments have to be used to give accurate diagnoses and execute changes for prescribed treatments. One of these instruments is the dental x-ray. It enables your dentist to see more than what the naked eye can see to paint a brighter smile on your face.

Please call us at 403-980-6363 or CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment or ask questions for South Airdrie Smiles.