The Importance of a Wisdom Teeth X-Ray
While an x-ray may seem harmless, it may reveal something unexpected. For example, an x-ray of the jaw could show that the first molar has extensive decay on its distal surface, and debris has accumulated between the first molar and wisdom tooth. If this is the case, the wisdom tooth will most likely have to be removed, and an x-ray would be helpful to document the procedure.
X-rays are used to diagnose problems in teeth and jaws
X-rays are used to diagnose a wide range of dental problems. Various types of images are used, including periapical X-rays, which show the entire tooth and its root, as well as the jaw and skull. Occlusal X-rays help dentists detect problems in the jaw, jawbone, or skull, and can help determine the source of a nerve pain.
X-rays are generally recommended every six months for a healthy adult. However, they may be necessary for those with long gaps between dental checkups. X-rays also allow dentists to diagnose problems in the teeth and jaws before they become painful or expensive. New patients may need more frequent x-rays than existing patients. In addition, children are more likely to need dental x-rays than adults.
They are useful in determining the position of impacted wisdom teeth
A conventional x-ray is not enough to identify whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or not. A dental x-ray shows the teeth and their roots, but a panoramic x-ray provides an even better view. The doctor can tell where the impacted teeth are and how they are aligned with neighboring teeth, nerve canals, and sinuses. A Panorex can be used to safely extract wisdom teeth. Your dentist can also perform a dental CT scan if your wisdom teeth are severely impacted or if you have an oral disease. This x-ray will show the exact location of the teeth and their relationship to other structures, such as the sinuses, nerves, and oral structures.
If you suspect that you have impacted wisdom teeth, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist. Wisdom teeth are the last ones to emerge from the mouth. However, they can be poorly positioned or not erupt fully. This causes a variety of problems, including tooth decay and even disease in the teeth that surround them. If your wisdom teeth are not properly positioned, your dentist may recommend an extraction to avoid pain or other complications.
They are also used to monitor their progress
X-rays are useful for a variety of purposes, including locating cavities and monitoring the progress of wisdom teeth. They also provide important information for dentists, who can use them to monitor teeth and gum disease early on and treat them before they lead to serious consequences. X-rays are also useful for tracking the progress of new teeth, which can be very important if the teeth are not yet fully formed.
X-rays are also valuable for diagnosing dental problems, such as tooth decay or tumors. Panoramic x-rays reveal the entire mouth and can identify impacted teeth. Tomograms reveal a single layer of the mouth and soften the focus on other areas. Cephalometric X-rays provide a full view of the jaw and teeth, making them an invaluable tool for monitoring the growth of wisdom teeth.
They can disrupt the alignment of teeth
The wisdom teeth are the third set of molars and are a valuable asset in the mouth when they come in properly and in an orderly fashion. In most cases, however, the wisdom teeth are misaligned and will crowd neighboring teeth. They can also damage the jawbone and nerves if they do not emerge properly. It is important to see a dentist if you suspect your wisdom teeth are misaligned or if they have become infected and/or in the wrong position.
Although the placement of your wisdom teeth is highly individual, there are several symptoms that may indicate that they are impacted and may have been disrupting your teeth’s alignment. You may experience pain in your jaw, swollen glands in your neck, foul breath, and malocclusion. Your orthodontist can recommend treatment if you notice any of these symptoms. Thankfully, there are treatments that can help you avoid the embarrassment caused by impacted wisdom teeth.
They can disrupt facial development
Researchers have found that a normal wisdom teeth x-ray can disturb facial development. The study marshals the evidence behind the jaws epidemic, but it also offers practical solutions for prevention. By encouraging proper mouth and jawbone development at an early age, parents can avoid a lifetime of health burdens and chronic diseases. Professor Paul Ehrlich, Bing Professor of Population Studies at Stanford University, hopes this study will spur changes in oral health care.