Dental X-rays are 2D images of your teeth that help your dentist assess your oral health. They are used to determine oral issues by examining the condition below the surface of your gums and enamel.
X-rays efficiently detect issues that cannot be identified via a regular oral checkup. At Brush & Floss Dental Center, we are well-equipped with all the technology required to diagnose dental issues and treat them accordingly.
What do X-Rays Reveal
X-rays are used to reveal oral issues concerning your teeth and jaws. Here are some common conditions that can be confirmed through x-rays:
•
Decay between teeth
•
Decay among existing fillings
•
Cracked or damaged fillings
•
Bone loss from gum
•
Abscesses
•
Infection or death of nerve in the root of a tooth
•
Cysts and tumors
•
Issues with teeth development in children
Two Main Types of Dental X-Rays
Most patients do not experience any pain or discomfort while getting their teeth x-rayed. There are two broad categories of dental x-rays:
Intraoral X-Rays
This method involves keeping the x-ray film inside your mouth to reveal the details. It helps your dentist detect cavities, examine the health of the tooth root, monitor tooth development, and check the overall health of your teeth and jaw bone. Different types of intraoral x-rays include bite-wing x-rays, periapical x-rays and occlusal x-rays.
Extraoral X-Rays
Extraoral x-rays are performed with the x-ray film outside the mouth, and are mostly focused on the jaw and skull. They are used to check for major issues, such as problems with jaw development, impacted teeth, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. The most common form of extraoral x-ray is the panoramic x-ray, which provides a complete view of jaw, joints, bones, and sinuses.
Modern dental x-rays are quite safe and expose patients to a controlled level of radiation. If you think you have a dental condition that requires an x-ray, schedule a dental visit with us at Brush & Floss Dental Center by calling us at Brush & Floss Dental Center. Experienced professionals at our practice will help you determine whether you require an x-ray, and administer it in the safest possible manner if you do.