If you’ve ever been to the dentist (and we certainly hope you have been!), you know that dental x-rays of your teeth is a normal part of a regular dental check-up. Painless, quick, and safe, you probably don’t even give them a second thought once your visit is over. But have you wondered how frequently you need dental x-rays? And how does your dentist determine the frequency?

While a neat and tidy answer would be nice, there is no one-size-fits-all answer about the frequency of dental x-rays needed for your teeth. Many factors go into the decision-making process.  

Even though dental x-rays are very safe, they do deliver incredibly small amounts of radiation. Comparatively, you’re exposed to more radiation when you fly in an airplane than in a dental chair getting an x-ray. But we still want to limit radiation exposure as much as possible.

That means that, while you should be coming to see your dentist every six months, you won't necessarily have x-rays taken at every appointment. In fact, if you’re a healthy adult without many oral health issues, you will only have x-rays taken once a year. This will allow your clinical team to check between the teeth and assess the bone holding those teeth in place. On the other hand, if your condition is less stable, or your dentist has cause for concern, they may require more frequent x-rays to keep tabs on your treatment.

Additionally, if you’re a new patient, there’s a good chance that your dentist will ask for x-rays to be done of your teeth on your first visit. It’s important to have a record of your teeth on-file to use for treatment planning and to help keep a close eye on any developing issues.  

But even though the answer to how often you may need x-rays is “it depends”, that doesn’t mean your dentist won’t keep you informed. If you’re not sure why an x-ray is being taken, or have any other questions or concerns about treatment plans or what goes on at a normal visit, please don’t hesitate to ask us. We’re always happy to explain our decisions and recommendations – after all, it’s your oral health that we’re talking about!

Haven’t had your regular dental check-up in more than six months? Click the orange Book Online button, and we’ll see you at one of our conveniently located clinics! We’re in Garden City and St. Vital in Winnipeg, so we’re never far away.