Many people require regular X-rays to monitor their oral health. Exactly how often this happens will depend on your medical and dental history and current oral/dental condition. 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 chart based on information from the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Who needs more frequent or regular radiographs?

• Children and adolescents — Children and adolescents at high risk of decay may need X-rays taken once every six months or once a year, depending on age. X-rays also help monitor tooth development.
• Adults with extensive restoration work, including fillings and crowns — X-rays help the dentist find decay beneath existing fillings and crowns or in new locations.
• People with periodontal (gum) disease — X-rays can reveal if there are significant or continuing 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 the acid levels (pH) in the mouth stable. In a dry mouth, the pH decreases. This causes the minerals in the teeth to break down, leaving them prone to decay. Dry mouth can occur as the result of taking certain medications, or it can be a result of cancer treatment or a chronic disease.
• Smokers — Smoking increases the risk of periodontal disease.