Dental X-rays: All You Need to Know

X‑rays – also known as radiographs – are an essential part of any dental treatment plan. They are used to diagnose and prevent problems. So while you might not have any specific complaints, it’s an important diagnostic tool that can help your dentist to spot signs that something might be amiss, even if it isn’t causing you any discomfort yet.

In this guide, we’re taking a deep dive into the role of the dental X‑ray, so you can feel confident you know exactly what is going on the next time you are referred for this type of diagnostic imaging. 

What are X‑rays used for?

X‑rays are able to detect decay under fillings or between teeth in areas that are not visible to the naked eye, as well as showing abscesses and infections in the roots of teeth. They also enable the dentist to determine the level and health of bone present in your jaw.

In children, x‑rays can show where their adult teeth will erupt or in adults can show where wisdom teeth are. They’re also essential for planning orthodontic treatment, as the X‑ray will show the alignment of the tooth root, not just the emerging tooth.

Why are new patients offered an X‑ray?

If you are a new patient, unless you have had x‑rays very recently, the dentist will recommend that x‑rays are taken. This helps to assess the condition of your mouth and check for any hidden problems.

After these x‑rays are recommended every 9 to 24 months depending on various dental risk factors, including history of decay, age and condition of your mouth. Even if you don’t have any complaints about your dental health, it’s helpful to have regular X‑rays as it allows your dentist to spot changes in your oral health that might otherwise be missed.

What types of X‑Rays are used?

There are various types of x‑ray. Some show one or two teeth and their roots, while others can take pictures of several teeth at once.

Periapical

Provides a view of the entire tooth, from the crown to the bone that helps to support the tooth.

Bite-Wing

Offers a visual of both the lower and upper teeth. This type of X‑ray shows the dentist how these teeth touch one another and helps to determine if decay is present between back teeth.

Panoramic

Shows a view of the teeth, jaws, nasal area, sinuses and the joints of the jaw, and is usually taken when a patient may need orthodontic treatment or implant placement.

Occlusal

Offers a clear view of the floor of the mouth to show the bite of the upper or lower jaw. This kind of X‑ray highlights children’s tooth development to show the baby and adult teeth.

Not all dentists have the facilities to take all types of X‑rays. If you require a specialist x‑ray prior to treatment you may need to be referred to an alternative surgery. This will ensure that you receive the highest possible quality of care.

Are dental x‑rays dangerous?

The radiation received from a dental x‑ray is incredibly small. With the constant advances in technology, and the fact that the dentist will only take x‑rays when they are clinically necessary, this means that the risks from dental x‑rays are very small. At Leigh Dental Centre, we use digital imaging plates to take any dental x‑rays required.

The main advantage of using digital imaging plates is that the patient receives a much lower dose of radiation, as the plates are extremely sensitive. The result is instant and can be seen immediately on our monitor in the surgery. This will make discussions about our findings much better as the image is much larger and easier to view than our original x‑rays.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure, which is why we advocate for the use of X‑rays where necessary. The risks associated with radiation exposure from X‑rays are low, but the potential benefits for catching a complex health problem before it becomes more advanced are high. This is why X‑rays are commonly used to get a picture of a patient’s oral health.

Are X‑rays safe during pregnancy?

Despite the low risk from radiation, we would still avoid using X‑rays while you are pregnant. For this reason, it’s essential to let the dentist know if you believe that you may be pregnant prior to any treatment. They will not take x‑rays until after the baby is born, unless they have no other alternatives.

If X‑rays are safe, why do staff need protection?

While X‑rays are safe for occasional use for a patient, our staff carry out dozens of X‑rays per day. This adds up to hundreds per month. This level of exposure would be unsafe, which is why our staff take steps to protect themselves from the radiation. A single X‑ray will not do any harm, but carrying out lots of X‑rays would be harmful. 

What are the alternatives to an X‑ray?

Alongside X‑rays, we can also use CT scans to get a clear picture of your teeth and jaw. These are more commonly used for treatments like dental implants, as it provides a better view of the health of the jaw bone and the surrounding structures. 

Where can I find more information?

If you need more information or would like to discuss how dental X‑rays are used during your dental treatment call Leigh Dental Centre, today on 01702 472929 and book a consultation today. We can guide you through the process so that you feel more confident in getting an X‑ray with us.