Introduction
Dental X-rays are a valuable tool in diagnosing dental problems. By inspecting the teeth and jawbone on an x-ray, a dentist can determine if there is anything wrong with your teeth that needs to be fixed. If you have any doubts about whether or not you should get a dental X-ray, talk to your dentist. A dental x-ray is an important part of preventive dentistry and can help prevent serious dental problems from developing.
What is a dental X-ray?
A dental X-ray is a diagnostic tool that uses invisible electromagnetic radiation to produce images of the teeth and jaw. Dentists use dental X-rays to diagnose and treat a variety of oral health problems, from cavities to gum disease. Dental X-rays are also used to plan for dental procedures, such as root canals or tooth extractions.
Reasons to get a dental X-ray
X-rays are an essential part of the preventive dental care process. They are used to detect problems such as cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. By detecting these problems early, you can get the treatment you need to keep your teeth healthy. Dental X-rays are also a valuable tool for diagnosing oral cancer. If you have any concerns about your oral health, be sure to talk to your dentist about getting a dental X-ray.
What can dental X-rays show?
Small areas of decay exist between teeth.
The level of decay underneath fillings.
Other types of tumors and cysts.
Bone loss due to periodontal disease.
The optimal tooth position to predict what kind of dental implants, braces, or dentures are required.
Abscesses.
Is it painful to get dental X-rays?
X-ray shouldn’t be painful, simply uncomfortable or awkward, at the most. If your gag reflex is particularly sensitive, consider telling your dental technician ahead of time. They can do things like sitting up as you take the image to help alleviate the pain as much as possible.
Types of X-rays
Periapical X-rays
Periapical X-rays display the complete tooth from the crown to the root where the tooth connects to the jaw. Each periapical X-ray displays all teeth in one section of either the upper or lower jaw. Periapical X-rays explore any strange changes in the root and surrounding bone tissues.
Full Mouth Survey X-rays
A full mouth periodontal x-ray comprises a panorex of the peak of the jaw, quadrangular radiographs, and periapical radiography of the roots. This provides a comprehensive evaluation of mid-Septembers of the alveolar bone (the bone that comprises the teeth), the tooth’s nerve health, and the presence or absence of cysts, tumors, or abscesses.
Panoramic X-rays
Panoramic radiography is a two-dimensional X-ray examination of the entire mouth in a single image, including teeth, jaws, surrounding structures, and tissues. The shape of the jaws is similar to that of a horseshoe.
Occlusal X-rays
Occlusal X-rays show the roof or floor of your mouth and are used to find extra teeth, teeth that are yet to break through the gums, jaw fractures, a cleft palate, cysts, abscesses, or growths. Occlusal X-rays may also be used to discover a foreign object.
Can an X-ray reveal infection in a tooth?
An infected tooth that is throbbing or painful at its root is often especially bothersome to touch or put pressure on. An X-ray can help your dental professional determine what is causing such discomfort. An X-ray of the infected tooth can tell you if you have an abscess. Your dentist may use X-rays to determine how the infection has spread and where it is located.
Signs of a tooth infection spreading to other body parts may include:
Fever, swelling
Dehydration
Increased heart rate
Increased breathing rate
Abdominal pain is also a common symptom.
Summary
Dental x-rays are most important part of oral health care. They allow dentists to identify and treat problems early, which can save time, money, and anguish in the long run. If you haven’t had a dental x-ray in a while, make an appointment today. Your teeth will thank you for it.
