Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center - December 2024

CHICKEN CAPRESE SALAD

When you visit the dentist, X-rays may be part of the visit! Dental X-rays play a large role in maintaining optimal oral health, providing a detailed view of what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. While a visual examination can detect many dental issues, X-rays give us a more thorough analysis and help identify potential problems early and accurately. WHAT ARE DENTAL X-RAYS? Dental X-rays, or radiographs, use low radiation levels to capture images of your teeth and jawbone. These images give us insight into what is going on with the health of tooth roots, jawbones, and even the development of teeth in children. X-rays can highlight various problems, from minor decay between teeth to more serious conditions like bone loss, abscesses, or cysts. How Dental X-rays Help Maintain a Healthy Smile Beyond the Surface

Inspired by EatingWell.com

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tsp Dijon mustard • 1 tsp ground pepper • 2 1/2 tsp honey • 3/4 tsp salt, divided • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning • 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 2 (8-oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced INGREDIENTS

• 8 cups coarsely chopped romaine lettuce • 1 lb grape tomatoes, halved • 1 (8-oz) container fresh small mozzarella cheese balls in water, drained • 1 cup fresh basil leaves

DIRECTIONS 1. Whisk vinegar, olive oil, mustard, and pepper in a medium bowl. Transfer 6 tbsp of mixture to a smaller bowl and whisk in honey; set aside. 2. To mixture in the medium bowl, add 1/2 tsp salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Add chicken; toss to coat. Marinate for 30 minutes. 3. Coat a grill pan with oil. Over medium heat, add chicken and cook until grill marks appear on each side, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a plate; let stand for 5 minutes. 4. Arrange romaine, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on a large platter; sprinkle with salt. Top with the sliced chicken and drizzle with the honey mixture.

WHY ARE DENTAL X-RAYS IMPORTANT?

Detecting Tooth Decay X-rays can spot cavities hidden between teeth or beneath existing fillings. Early detection of decay can prevent more extensive and expensive dental procedures. Evaluating Bone Health X-rays provide a detailed look at the jawbone and help assess whether bone loss occurs due to conditions like periodontitis (gum disease). If left untreated, this bone loss can lead to tooth loss. Monitoring Tooth Development X-rays are helpful for younger patients in tracking how teeth develop. They can identify issues such as impacted teeth or overcrowding, enabling early intervention before more complex problems arise. Diagnosing Infections and Abscesses Dental infections or abscesses sometimes form beneath the gums and are not immediately noticeable. X-rays can help identify these issues so we can quickly treat them. Planning Dental Procedures X-rays are essential for accurate planning before certain dental procedures, such as root canals, implants, or braces. They ensure that we have a full understanding of the patient's oral structure and can proceed safely and effectively.

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