What are Dental X-Rays?
Dental X-Rays, also known as radiographs, are images of teeth used by dentists to determine abnormalities to teeth, commonly not seen by the naked eye. They are vital to the examination of a patients’ oral health.
Dental X-rays are typically performed during routine exams, yearly. Although, additional x-rays may be needed during other examinations to track the progress of treatments or any abnormalities.
What to expect for a dental x-ray?
There is no preparation needed for dental x-rays to be taken during a visit with our staff. We encourage all patients to brush their teeth before their dental visit, to ensure a hygienic oral visit for those performing the examination. X-rays are typically taken before the dental cleaning begins.
Before beginning your x-rays, you will sit in our chairs with a lead vest across your chest and lap. This vest is used to deter the small amounts of radiation that a dental x-ray omits.
What types of dental x-rays?
Bitewing: This x-ray involves the patient’s biting down on a special piece of paper so that the dentist can see how the teeth match up while biting down. This can also be used for checking cavities in between the teeth.
Occlusal: This x-ray will be taken when a patient’s jaw is closed to see how the upper and bottom teeth line up. This is commonly used to detect abnormalities in the floor of the mouth or palate. It is also commonly used for capturing all teeth in one image.
Panoramic: For this x-ray, the machine will rotate around a patient’s head. A dentist commonly uses this type of x-ray to examine wisdom teeth, make a treatment plan for the implantation of dental devices, or inspect any issues with a patient’s jaw.
Periapical: This image captures two teeth from root to crown.