Why are dental radiographs recommended during senior dental procedures?

• A. They reveal hidden pathology such as root abscesses, bone loss, tooth resorption, and periapical disease not visible on exam
• B. They are optional and rarely useful
• C. They assess only soft tissue health
• D. They replace the need for dental cleaning

Answer: (A)

Dental radiographs are essential because they let us see what’s happening under the gum line and around the tooth roots. They reveal hidden pathology such as root abscesses, bone loss, tooth resorption, and periapical disease that an exam alone can miss. In senior dogs, disease often progresses subgingivally, so radiographs show the true extent of bone loss and root issues, guiding how we treat each tooth. The images help plan extractions, root canal therapy, or targeted cleaning, and they also reveal fractures or other problems not evident clinically. They don’t assess soft tissue health and they don’t replace cleaning; they simply provide critical information to manage dental disease effectively. That’s why they’re routinely recommended during senior dental procedures.