Dental Exams And Dental Radiography in Sterling, VA

Dental Exams and X-Rays in Sterling, VA

Dental exams and x-rays are an essential part of oral care. They help your dentist detect potential problems early on, which can save you money and hassle in the long run. PK Family Dentistry in Sterling, VA, provides high-quality care to patients of all ages and prioritizes each patient’s dental health. We are happy to help you maintain optimal oral health.

Contact us today at 703-421-8988 to schedule an appointment!

What to Expect During Your Regular Dental Exam

Healthy teeth and gums are essential for your overall health, which is why you should schedule regular visits to your dentist. You should visit the dentist every six months. Knowing what to expect during your exam can help make the process more comfortable for you. Our dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay or gum disease during your dental visit. We will also perform a thorough cleaning to remove any buildup of plaque. This will include brushing, flossing, and fluoride treatment if needed.

Your dentist will typically take x-rays of your teeth to see if cavities or other hidden dental abnormalities are present in your teeth. This is generally done once a year. It is beneficial in getting ahead of any dental problems before they become too severe. If any issues are detected, treatment can be started immediately, depending on the severity.

About Dental X-Rays

While x-rays can sound pretty straightforward, your recommended treatment will depend on what we need to see or diagnose. These are the main types of dental x-rays we will use during your exam:

Panoramic

A panoramic x-ray gives us a comprehensive view of all of your teeth and the surrounding structures in one image. This can be especially helpful for identifying problems early on, such as wisdom teeth or orthodontic issues, or for patients with a complex medical and dental history. 

Periapical

Periapical x-rays are one of the most common dental x-rays taken and are helpful in gum disease evaluation. They can help diagnose and treat problems with the teeth and surrounding tissues. Periapical x-rays allow us to see a cross-sectional view of the entire tooth, from the gum line to the tip of the root. This helps us identify any problems or abnormalities in the tooth, including cavities, cracked teeth, and gum disease.

Bitewing

Bitewing x-rays allow us to see the surfaces of your upper and lower teeth. It allows us to see how your teeth align and help us identify any issues in your bite. This is useful for detecting cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, or infection in these areas.

Full Mouth Series

Full Mouth Series x-rays provide a comprehensive view of all the teeth in your mouth. They are a combination of bitewing and periapical x-rays. This type of x-ray allows your dentist to see everything from hidden decay to structural problems with the teeth and jawbone. Full Mouth Series x-rays are an essential part of routine dental care, and they can help ensure that your smile stays healthy.

The Importance of Regular Dental X-Rays and Exams

Making regular dental visits and x-rays a priority can help prevent a dental emergency down the road. During your complete dental exam, we can catch early signs of disease and perform an oral cancer screening, so you can rest assured you will always be on top of your dental health. Regular exams can prevent several dental issues such as:

• Advanced tooth decay
• Tooth loss
• Severe cavities
• Gum disease
• Periodontal disease

Getting ahead of these issues is crucial for your dental health and your overall health. Get ahead of potential dental problems by making regular dental visits a priority.

Schedule Your Dental Exam With Us Today

Make your dental health a priority and schedule an exam with our dental office today. Our office staff would be happy to help. Contact us today at 703-421-8988, and we will be glad to answer any questions.