DIGITAL DENTAL X-RAY
OVERVIEW
​
Also known as dental radiographs, dental X-rays create images of the internal structures of the jaw and mouth. Dental X-rays are useful for viewing jawbones and various tooth structures. They can find and image cavities, bone or gum loss, periodontal disease, benign or malignant tumors, and other normal or abnormal structures within the lower portion of the head. In children and adolescents, they are also useful for finding un-erupted permanent teeth and imaging root structures in preparation for orthodontic work.
​
Like other types of X-rays, dental X-rays take advantage of the natural density contrasts within the mouth and jaw. For instance, denser jawbones, teeth, crowns and fillings show up as light areas within the darker, less-dense soft tissues that surround them. Cavities easily appear on X-rays because they are less dense than the teeth that they affect.
​
RISKS
​
Although dental X-rays use radiation to achieve light-dark contrasts, they are not dangerous when used occasionally. The exposed levels of radiation are so low that they’re considered SAFE for both children and adults. During a typical X-ray session, a patient receives about as much radiation exposure as he or she would on a 5-hours airplane flight.
Exposure levels are even LESS with our Digital X-Ray technique.
​
In addition, a lead “bib” will be placed to cover the patient's chest, abdomen, and pelvic region to prevent any unnecessary radiation exposure to your vital organs. A thyroid collar may be used in the case of thyroid conditions. Children and women of childbearing age may also wear them along with the lead bib.
​
WHEN TO GET DENTAL X-RAYS
​
Dental X-rays are a crucial component of a complete program of oral hygiene. Depending upon your age and risk of tooth decay, you should receive dental X-rays according to your dentist's recommendations. If you don't adhere to your dentists recommendations, you could miss a vital opportunity to detect and treat tooth decay before it becomes problematic.
​
In the long run, early detection will save you time, money and pain.
COMMON TYPES OF DENTAL X-RAYS​
There are 3 basic types of "intraoral" X-ray views. Each type is useful in its own way. Unless your dentist is looking for a specific issue in a certain part of your jaw or mouth, you'll receive a "full mouth" X-ray series that includes multiple versions of the first two types of exposures.
-
Bitewing view: Split evenly between the upper and lower parts of the jaw, bitewing views allow your dentist to detect evidence of cavities and bone loss in the crown and sub-gum portions of your teeth. Bitewing views generally image the rear halves of the upper and lower jaws.
-
Periapical view: These "lower views" are used to study the root structures of teeth in detail. They may be able to pinpoint the source of nerve pain and may also be able to detect impacted or superfluous teeth below the surface of the gums. Periapical views are often used as a precursor to periodontics work, endodontic therapy and root canals.
-
Occlusal view: This special type of X-ray is used to study the bone structures of the upper and lower jaws. Occlusal views may be able to detect evidence of tumors or bone loss as well as blockages in the salivary ducts.
​
