Ask the Dentist!
Let's Talk Dental X-Rays
An X-ray can detect problems that may be missed by just looking in your mouth. Problems like:
- tooth infections
- cavities between teeth
- jaw bone loss due to periodontal disease
- jaw development issues in children
- tumors or malignancies of the jaw
X-rays help your dentist in diagnosing the extent of your dental problems and are required by most all dental insurance companies for payment processing.
Common types of dental x-rays include:
- bite-wing x-rays - used to identify cavities between the teeth
- periapical x-rays - used to identify individual tooth problems
- panoramic x-rays - commonly used to identify impacted wisdom teeth, jaw tumors and jaw development
Another type of dental image is known as a Cone-Beam Computed Technology (CBCT) which generates a 3-D image of the jaw much like a Cat Scan. This one is not as often used but can provide valuable information when placing dental implants or evaluating the position of impacted teeth.
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are exposed to radiation on a daily basis from the sun, air and soil. So, to limit the radiation exposure from x-rays, your dentist will use a special lead lined drape which may include a special collar to protect your thyroid. Pregnant women may wonder if dental x-rays can harm their unborn child. X-rays are considered safe at any stage of pregnancy. In fact, The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists note that delaying dental treatment, including x-rays, could lead to more serious problems like an infection. Tell your dentist if you are or might be pregnant. A protective drape will be used to cover your abdomen if an x-ray is needed.
