Frequency of Dental X-Rays

Dentists use x-rays to further examine a patient's teeth and gums. Dental x-rays can show problems such as bone loss, tooth decay, and abscesses that occur under the gums near the root of the tooth. The frequency of dental x-rays depends on the patient's age and previous dental history.

Children/Young Adult X-ray Frequency

• A dentist may recommend bite-wing x-rays every year or two years for children without the presence of tooth decay. Teenagers whose wisdom teeth have not broken through the gums yet may require bite-wing x-rays and every one and a half to three years if they do not show signs of tooth decay, according to the Cleveland Clinic, a non-profit medical center.

Adult X-ray Frequency

• Adults may need to have bite-wing x-rays every year if tooth decay is present. Adults without previous dental problems generally need x-rays every two to three years, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Considerations

• Patients who smoke, have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, or who have had multiple fillings resulting from tooth cavities may require frequent dental x-rays. Dental x-ray machines emit small amounts of radiation, and the Cleveland Clinic recommends that patients only receive dental x-rays when medically necessary.