Medicaid Dental X-rays Texas

Dental X-Rays?

Dental x-rays are radiographs or images taken of the teeth and gums. These images allow the dentist to see inside a tooth, the tooth root, the bone around the tooth, and any other areas that can’t be seen during an oral exam. Some issues like cavities, infection or impacted teeth can only be seen with the use of radiographs.

Why Are Dental X-rays needed?

As mentioned above dental x-rays help the dentist see things that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Infection at the root of a tooth or a tooth that is impacted under bone cannot be seen without the use of x-rays. X-rays are routinely taken once a year and usually during a person’s routine dental exam. X-rays can also be taken when a patient is having specific dental issues. Taking x-rays of teeth that may be diseased helps the dentist diagnose the issue and provide the best treatment.

How Many Types Of X-Rays Are There?

There are many different types of x-rays that are used for different reasons. Below is a list of different x-rays and the reasons why they are used:

• Bitewings – Bitewing x-rays are usually taken at a person’s cleaning and dental exam appointment. These x-rays got their name because of the wing style tab that a patient bites on to hold them in place. Bitewings are used to show decay that is hidden between teeth.
• Periapical (PA) – A periapical x-ray also known as a PA is used to show the whole tooth including the root. This type of x-ray can help show problems below the gumline like abscesses at the root tip of the tooth.
• Panoramic (pano) – A panoramic x-ray is an x-ray that shows a flat image of the entire mouth. The x-ray machine moves slowly around a person’s head and takes a full picture of the whole upper and lower jaw. Pano’s are used to help the dentist check the health of the jaw as well as for wisdom teeth. This type of x-ray is also used for patients wanting implant treatment.

Can X-rays Be Harmful?

Many people are afraid to have x-rays taken because they fear the radiation. Our dentist Dr. Brandon Del Toro DDS and his team inform each patient on the safety of x-rays. Because most x-rays are digital and involve low levels of exposure there is less radiation. Each patient is also given a lead vest to wear for added protection. X-rays have been shown to be safe for all ages. One group that should avoid dental x-rays is pregnant women. This is why it’s so important for those who are pregnant to inform Dr. Del Toro and his team of this information before any x-rays are taken.

What To Expect When Having Dental X-rays Taken

Dental x-rays are not painful or harmful and a person should never fear having them taken. Dr. Brandon Del Toro DDS respects each person’s right to refuse x-rays. However, it’s important for each patient to know that not having dental x-rays taken can leave them open to hidden problems.

When Dr. Del Toro does a dental exam he does a thorough check of the entire mouth. Unfortunately, problems below the gumline cannot be seen and could cause major issues. This is why it’s so important to allow x-rays to be taken. Dr. Del Toro and his team can answer any questions a person may have about dental x-rays. Knowing the importance of x-rays can help put each person’s fears at ease.

Insurance Coverage

Dental insurance can be very helpful because under most plans dental x-rays and dental exams are covered. Unfortunately, many people may not have dental insurance and may avoid having needed dental work done because of this. Luckily Dr. Del Toro accepts Adult Dental Medicaid, a program that helps those who are eligible receive certain dental treatments at low or no cost.

Adult Dental Medicaid is designed to help low-income families, certain pregnant women, adults who are disabled, and others who qualify for the program. Dr. Del Toro accepts Adult Dental Medicaid for patients living in Paris, Texas, Clarksville, TX, Sulphur Springs, TX, Mt Pleasant, TX, Commerce, TX, Sherman, TX, and Denison, TX areas. If you are in need of a dental treatment contact Dr. Del Toro today to schedule an appointment.