Are the extra x-rays at the dentist necessary?

When I go to the dentist, they say that since my insurance pays for x-rays every 6 months, that their policy is to take x-rays every 6 months.

Of course, they mentioned that if my insurance doesn't cover every 6 months, then I would only need annual x-rays.

In addition to the little x-rays that are taken when you bite into the film things, they also require the panoramic x-ray that goes all around your head. Which is also at an additional cost not covered by insurance.

I hate the idea of all of this radiation being blasted at my head if these procedures are unnecessary. Can a dentist or someone familiar with the US dentistry system explain if x-rays are really appropriate every 6 months and if I need both kinds of x-rays?? Thanks!

As far as the bitewing xrays go (little ones) once a year is fine unless you are having a problem or if you are cavity prone. Usually the panoramics are only necessary every three years, unless you are having a problem.
Hopes this helps.

yes

the only time ive EVER had an xray of my head was to determine wether or not i needed braces, and i dont really know of any of my american friends having as many xrays as you've mentioned (and i have quite a few american friends) to me it sounds a bit like your dentist is trying to rip you off, but then again i dont live in america, so i dont know for certain, maybe phone up a couple other dentist surgeries in the area and see what their policy on xrays are (how often to have them etc etc etc).

to me it sounds excessive, having THAT many xrays.

Absolutely not-it is totally about money in their pocket.
Annual is more then enough. Once every THREE years makes more sense and having a frequent panoramic is absurd unless something is detected and warrants further investigation, so yes, protect that head of yours from radiation because no one else will!

In our office, we do bitewing xrays (those are the ones that go on the side of your mouth) every 6 months and the panoramic every 3-5 years. The bitewings are important because it alerts us to decay in your molars and in between the teeth. The panoramic is important because it shows an overall picture of your mouth (bone level, impacted teeth, etc.). Xrays are a diagnostic tool and yes, the condition of your teeth can change in a six month period.