Dental X-Rays

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Dental X-rays are images of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding tissues that help detect issues that may not be visible during a regular dental exam. They allow dentists to identify cavities, hidden teeth (like wisdom teeth), bone loss, infections, and other oral health problems. X-rays can also be used to monitor the success of previous dental treatments.

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Common Types of Dental X-rays:

• Bitewing X-rays: Show the upper and lower back teeth in a single view, highlighting how the teeth touch each other. They are ideal for detecting decay between teeth, checking alignment, and observing bone loss due to gum disease or infection.

• Periapical X-rays: Capture the entire tooth, from crown to root, including the supporting bone. These are useful for spotting impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts, tumors, and bone changes caused by disease.

• Occlusal X-rays: Display the roof or floor of the mouth. They help detect extra teeth, teeth that haven’t erupted yet, jaw fractures, cleft palate, cysts, abscesses, growths, or foreign objects.

• Panoramic X-rays: Provide a wide view of the jaws, teeth, sinuses, nasal area, and jaw joints. While they don’t detect cavities, they reveal impacted teeth, bone abnormalities, infections, tumors, and fractures.

• Digital X-rays: Can be stored and shared electronically, making record-keeping and treatment planning more convenient.

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A full-mouth series (14–21 periapical X-rays) is often taken during your first visit. Bitewing X-rays are commonly used during regular checkups, while panoramic X-rays are used when a broader view is needed.

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Dental X-rays are recommended based on your age, risk for dental issues, and any signs of oral disease, ensuring that your dentist has all the information needed to keep your smile healthy.