Dental Radiographs (X-rays)

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICOI

Dental radiographs, commonly known as X-rays, provide dentists with a valuable diagnostic tool. Here are some questions patients often ask about them.

How Important Are Dental X-rays for My Oral Health?

X-rays detect some conditions not visible through a normal visual exam. They can reveal the presence of small cavities between teeth, infections in the bone, periodontal disease, some types of tumors, cysts, abscesses, and other abnormalities. They also show the position of impacted teeth or any that have yet to erupt.

Your oral health could be threatened if these conditions are left undetected and untreated. Treating dental problems early can save you time, money, and discomfort.

What Are the Different Types of Dental X-rays?

Bitewing and Periapical: Patients bite down on a small piece of plastic containing X-ray film. Bitewing X-rays are used to detect decay between teeth and changes in bone caused by gum disease. Periapical X-rays, performed in the same manner, show root structure, bone levels, and any abnormalities. These show a very detailed image of a small area.

Panoramic X-rays: These allow your dentist to see all of your upper and lower teeth and parts of your jaw, giving a comprehensive view of your whole mouth on a single film.

How Often Should X-rays Be Taken?

If you are a new patient, your dentist may suggest X-rays to assess your oral health status. Generally, new patients require a full set of X-rays for current evaluation and are used for future comparison. Based on your individual needs, your dentist will decide how often X-rays are appropriate. Children may require X-rays more often because of their developing teeth and jaws and their greater risk of having cavities.

Are Dental X-rays Safe?

With state-of-the-art technology in X-ray equipment and by following procedures, dental radiographs emit only a small amount of radiation. Additionally, a lead apron or thyroid shield is used to protect against exposure.

Advances in technology are putting digital, computerized X-rays on the horizon. They emit even less radiation and for certain procedures, such as root canals, give more precise diagnostic images. In the future, they will add to the ability to diagnose.