You know how your dentist gives you a little thing to bite on before they tell you to hold still and take an x-ray? Or does your dentist have a more high-tech, panoramic dental x-ray machine? Today I’ll explain why we take dental x-rays and the different types there are. I’ll also discuss whether dental x-rays are safe and if you should get dental x-rays during pregnancy.

Dental Radiology 101

Dental x-rays are also called radiographs. (Dental radiology is the study of them.) Your dentist may take dental x-rays if you’re a new patient, haven’t been seen in a while, or are in for a follow-up visit after dental treatment. Your age, health, and individual needs and risk factors all affect how often dental x-rays are taken.

Despite using mirrors and shining a bright light into your mouth, I can’t see everything. Dental x-rays are valuable because they can detect damage to teeth and the bone supporting teeth that I can’t see during a routine visual examination. About half of cavities are diagnosed from x-rays.

Dental x-ray machine can show the condition of your teeth, their roots, jaw placement, and your facial bones. They can help me see if you have periodontal (gum) disease and how bad it is. Dental x-rays also reveal cavities, abscesses, and abnormal growths like cysts and tumors.

So why else do I take dental x-rays? Because finding and treating dental problems early can save you time, money, and pain. If you have a hidden tumor, dental radiology may even help you save your life. In that light, holding still for a few seconds is a pretty small price to pay!

Types of Dental X-Rays

The most common type of dental x-rays are bitewing x-rays. (Think of it as biting down on little flexible wings.) Bitewing x-rays typically determine if there’s decay between teeth – one of the most common areas where decay-causing bacteria live.

Another common dental x-ray type is the periapical x-ray, which gives the dentist an image of the entire tooth, including the roots. A periapical x-ray helps me evaluate the root structure of a particular tooth. I can also see bone level, cysts, and abscesses.

A panoramic radiograph is a type of x-ray that lets me see the entire structure of your mouth. It shows me all of your upper and lower teeth and part of your jaw in a single image. Dentists typically use a panoramic radiograph to see how teeth are developing in kids and teens, especially wisdom teeth.

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