Dental X-rays: How Often?

Many people require regular X-rays to keep track of their oral health. How often should X-rays be done? The answer depends on your medical and dental history and the current condition of your mouth. Some people may need X-rays as often as every six months. People who visit the dentist regularly and have excellent oral health may need X-rays only every three years or so.
To see how often you or your family members might need X-rays, check out this site. http://www.simplestepsdental.com/SS/ihtSS/r.WSIHW000/st.31855/t.84101/pr.3.html. It is based on information from the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Who needs more frequent or regular X-rays?

• Children and teenagers — Children and teens at high risk of decay and those who have a history of many cavities, may need X-rays every six months or every year, depending on age. X-rays also help to keep track of tooth development.
• Adults with many fillings, crowns, and bridges, or other restorations — X-rays help the dentist find decay beneath your fillings and crowns or in new locations.
• People with periodontal (gum) disease — X-rays can reveal signs of bone loss. If this has happened, then periodontal (gum) surgery may be needed.
• People with dry mouth, also called xerostomia —Saliva helps keep your mouth and teeth healthy by regulating the acid levels (pH) in the mouth. In a dry mouth, the pH decreases. This causes the minerals in the teeth to break down, resulting in more cavities. Many medicines can cause dry mouth. It also can be a result of cancer treatment or a long-term disease.
• Smokers — Smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Article taken from: http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-Basics/Checkups-and-Dental-Procedures/X-Rays/article/How-Often-Should-Teeth-Be-X-Rayed.cvsp