Dental X-Rays: The Procedure, Types, and Why They are Needed

We are all familiar with x-rays. Perhaps you have had one when your doctor suspects a broken or fractured bone. You may have even had a chest x-ray when you visited a physician with flu-like symptoms. X-rays are used for a wide range of reasons and are a way for doctors to take an easy look inside someone's body. Although the pictures are black and white, they allow medical professionals to search for things that need further medical attention. One of the most common uses of x-rays is in the dental profession.

Although most of us have gotten x-rays done at one time or another, have we really given any thought to when they first were introduced into the medical and dental professions? Interestingly, the ex-ray dates all the way back to 1895 , when Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, a German physics professor removed the air from a cathode tube and filled it with gas. Roentgen concluded that the tube was able to emit an invisible light called a ray when he passed a high electric voltage through it. When the cathode tube was covered in heavy black paper, passing electricity through it resulted in a glow on a barium-coated screen. Since "X" symbolizes something that is unknown, the light was named an "x-ray". It was soon discovered that these rays could pass through human skin and tissue. As a result of his amazing discovery, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen was awarded the first Nobel Prize in physics. Soon, x-rays were being used for all fields of medicine and health sciences, including the field of dentistry.

Everyone should keep in mind that x-rays are completely painless, and therefore nothing to worry about! While sitting in a chair, the person will have a lead apron or shield placed over their chest and a thyroid collar placed around their neck. The film or sensor will then be positioned. The dental professional takes the needed images , and the x-ray is then complete. It is a quick and simple procedure.

Often times, the first question a patient asks their dental professional is why they need dental x-rays. What exactly is the dentist looking for ? The answer is quite simple. Dental x-rays are taken so that the dentist can look deeper than he or she can with a visual exam, and diagnose any potential problems before they become too serious. The x-ray, also known as a radiograph, allows the dentist to view areas of the teeth that cannot otherwise be seen, as well as underneath the gum line. X-rays are used in dentistry for the following reasons:

• To monitor developing teeth.
• So that the dentist can see cavities.
• To examine the root of the tooth.
• To look for signs of periodontal disease.
• So that the dentist can look for any cysts, abscesses, or other abnormalities.

As anyone can see, x-rays are invaluable to the field of dentistry, so that the dental professional can provide the most thorough examination.

All x-rays are not the same! There are two main types , intraoral, where the x-ray film is in the mouth, and extraoral, where the x-ray film is outside the mouth. The most common type is intraoral x-rays, with which the dentist looks for cavities and monitors the health of the teeth. The types of intraoral x-rays are as follows:

• Bite-wing x-rays - this type of x-ray detects tooth decay between teeth, as well as any changes that may be caused by gum disease.
• Occlusal x-rays - this type of x-ray looks at the development and placement of teeth.
• Periapical x-rays - this type of x-ray looks at the entire tooth from the crown to the root. Abnormalities of the root and bone structure are detected.

There are also several types of extraoral x-rays. These types are as follows:

• Panoramic x-rays, which show the position of the entire tooth, and are useful in diagnosing tumors.
• Tomograms look at a layer of the mouth that are otherwise very difficult to see.
• Sialography allows dentists to identify problems with the salivary gland.
• Cephalometric projections are used by orthodontists to identify the proper course of treatment.
• CT scanning is used to detect tumors or fractures in the facial area. This type of scan also allows the dentist to evaluate bones in preparation for implants and extractions.

The main concern of many people is the safety of x-rays, especially for pregnant women and small children. Pregnant women are often pleased to learn that dental x-rays are completely safe, and pose no risk to the developing fetus. While you should always inform your dental professional that you are pregnant before the x-rays are done, they are certainly no cause for concern.

Many parents are concerned about their child being exposed to radiation, and often wonder if the x-rays are completely necessary. There is actually only a small amount of radiation received from an x-ray, so they are completely safe for children. If children have a good oral care regimen, including brushing twice per day, flossing once per day, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, it can reduce the frequency of the need to have x-rays done. Many parents find this comforting. Rest assured that equipment such as shields and lead body aprons are used during all dental x-rays to further protect the child from radiation. The x-rays can be beneficial, as they are both diagnostic and preventative.

At Salgra Dental Group, we understand the importance of excellent oral health. That is why we use x-rays to diagnose and prevent any issues for each one of our patients. We use a digital x-ray machine that emits only a fraction of the radiation of a conventional x-ray machine, with the results being viewed much quicker. Our team provides the best quality care possible, taking into concern the individual needs of each patient. We provide a calming, comfortable experience for everyone. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.