Do I need X-rays at every check-up?

Not automatically. The decision depends on your history, clinical findings, risk and the images already available.

Can the practice use my previous X-rays?

Possibly. Tell us where and when they were taken so we can discuss obtaining them. Their suitability depends on the clinical question, quality and coverage.

Can I ask why an X-ray is recommended?

Yes. Ask what it is intended to show and how the result may affect your care.

Why might I need dental X-rays when nothing hurts?

A tooth does not have to hurt for an X-ray to provide useful information. Some areas between teeth, around roots and within supporting bone cannot be fully assessed by looking in the mouth. Whether an image is needed depends on the clinical question and your history, rather than pain alone.

Start with the question the image will answer

Ask your dentist what they are looking for and how the result could affect your care. A useful explanation might concern a hidden surface between teeth or the root of one particular tooth. The image should contribute to a decision, rather than simply add another picture to your file.

The 2026 American Dental Association and radiology academy recommendations address selecting dental images for different clinical situations. Their focus is matching imaging to the patient's needs. These are US clinical recommendations, not Australian regulations, but the principle of an individual clinical justification is relevant to the discussion. Patient-selection recommendations.

Why not take every type of image?

Different images show different information. Small images may help assess individual teeth or the spaces between them, while a panoramic image provides a broader view. Three-dimensional imaging has particular uses but is not automatically required for a routine check-up.

More imaging is not inherently better. Your dentist considers the information needed and whether it can be obtained from the examination or existing records. Tell the practice if another dentist has recently taken X-rays; those images may be useful if their quality and coverage are suitable.

What about radiation?

Dental X-rays use ionising radiation. Safety recommendations focus on obtaining the information needed while limiting exposure. A 2024 review discusses justification, equipment and techniques that support that aim. It does not support taking an image without a clinical reason. Radiation safety recommendations.

If you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or have concerns about previous imaging, tell your dentist. You can ask for an explanation of the benefits and limitations before deciding. Avoid comparing individual exposures using online figures that may refer to different equipment or examinations.

How often should images be repeated?

There is no single interval suitable for every patient and every type of image. The Australian Dental Association describes factors such as current disease, future risk and past treatment as relevant to that recommendation. Australian patient guidance.

Before you leave, ask the dentist to explain the findings in everyday language and whether they change your treatment or monitoring plan. An image makes most sense when you understand the decision it helps inform.

Talk to us

For advice about your own teeth and gums, explore our general dental care or book an appointment at Park Road Dental in Cheltenham. You can also call (03) 9584 4949. Tell us what is bothering you when booking so we can help arrange an appropriate visit.