About Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays are one of the most important procedures your dentist will perform at your checkup. Having an x-ray view of the soft tissues and bone structures of your mouth can make it easier for your dentist to locate potential problems while they are still treatable. There are several versions of dental x-rays on the market used for similar purposes.
Types of Dental X-Rays
Bitewing x-rays give an excellent view of upper and lower teeth, as well as how the teeth fit together in a single view. In cases of severe gum disease or dental infection, a bitewing x-ray will show the dentist any bone loss that has occurred. These x-rays make decay between the teeth visible, and show upper and lower teeth alignment.
Periapical x-rays show the entire tooth from crown to the end of the root, as well as any bones that support the tooth. In addition to finding dental problems visible in a bitewing x-ray, it will locate any impacted teeth, cysts, tumors, abscesses and any bone changes linked to disease. A full-mouth series of periapical x-rays is most often done during a person's first visit to the dentist
Occlusal x-rays show the roof or floor of the mouth and are used to find extra teeth, teeth that have not yet broken through the gums, jaw fractures, cleft palate, cysts, abscesses, or growths. Occlusal x-rays may also be used to find a foreign object.
Panoramic x-rays show a broad view of the jaws, teeth, sinuses, nasal area, and temporomandibular (jaw) joints. These x-rays do not find cavities. These x-rays do show problems such as impacted teeth, bone abnormalities, cysts, solid growths (tumors), infections, and fractures.
Panoramic x-rays are used occasionally and show a larger view of the jaw area, jaw joints, teeth, sinuses and nasal area.