Can a cavity be missed on an X-ray?

First, a cavity can only be seen on an x-ray once it has dissolved 20-30\% of the tooth structure so it may not have been obvious last visit. And cavities can grow fast on some patients! Second, some teeth have rotations and malalignments that cause cavities to be very elusive from standard x-ray positions.

Why do dentists insist on X-rays?

This is why x-rays are so important at the dentist. They allow your dentist to look past the tissue of your mouth, such as your gums, and into the deeper areas of your teeth and jaw bone. This allows your dentist to look for signs of oral health issues that may be invisible with a visual examination alone.

Can a dentist misdiagnose a cavity?

Your tooth is then filled and sealed. Some patients wonder whether it’s possible to misdiagnose a cavity. The answer is yes, there is always the potential to under or over diagnose a cavity.

Is it possible my dentist missed a cavity?

Cavities are usually painful, and they can be easily spotted by a dentist. However, there are some “hidden cavities” that are harder to spot. These cavities, or hidden caries, are often missed in an exam because they are so deeply hidden within the pits and fissures of the teeth.

Why didnt my dentist catch my cavity?

A few explanations may be accurate. First, your cavity may be so small it did not show up on your dental x-rays. A very small cavity has not yet caused enough damage to be visible through x-ray technology. Secondly, your cavity could be hiding behind an existing filling.

What happens if a cavity isn’t filled correctly?

Failure to remove fillings can result in oral discomfort and dental problems like tooth decay and advanced infections. A loose or damaged filling can even lead to a root canal infection. To prevent significant dental problems, Dr. Asadi may recommend that your fillings are replaced.