Dental x-rays

X-ray - teeth; Radiograph - dental; Bitewings; Periapical film; Panoramic film; Digital image

The test is performed in the dentist's office. There are many types of dental x-rays. Some of them are:

• Bitewing. Shows the crown portions of the top and bottom teeth together when the person bites on a paper tab.
• Periapical. Shows 1 or 2 complete teeth from crown to root.
• Palatal (also called occlusal ). Captures all the upper or lower teeth in one shot while the film rests on the biting surface of the teeth.
• Panoramic. Requires a special machine that rotates around the head. The x-ray captures all of the jaws and teeth in one shot. It is used to plan treatment for dental implants, check for impacted wisdom teeth, and detect jaw problems. A panoramic x-ray is not the best method for detecting cavities, unless the decay is very advanced and deep.

Many dentists are also taking x-rays using digital technology. These images runs through a computer. The amount of radiation given off during the procedure is less than traditional methods. Other types of dental x-rays can create a 3-D picture of the jaw. Cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) may be used before dental surgery, especially when many implants are being placed.

There is no special preparation. A lead apron may be placed over your body. Tell your dentist if you might be pregnant.

The x-ray itself causes no discomfort. Biting on the piece of film makes some people gag. Slow, deep breathing through the nose usually relieves this feeling.

Dental x-rays help diagnose disease and injury of the teeth and gums.

Normal x-rays show a normal number, structure, and position of the teeth and jaw bones. There are no cavities or other problems.

Dental x-rays may be used to identify the following:

• The number, size, and position of teeth
• Unemerged or impacted teeth
• The presence and extent of tooth decay (called cavities, or dental caries)
• Bone damage (such as from gum disease called periodontitis)
• Abscessed teeth
• Fractured jaw
• Problems in the way the upper and lower teeth fit togethher (malocclusion)
• Other abnormalities of the teeth and jaw bones

There is very low radiation exposure from dental x-rays. However, no one should receive more radiation than necessary. A lead apron can be used to cover the body and reduce radiation exposure. Pregnant women should not have x-rays taken unless absolutely necessary.

Dental x-rays can reveal dental cavities before they are visible, even to the dentist. Many dentists will take yearly bitewings to look for early development of cavities.