Dental X-rays

One of the most common uses of dental X-rays is to detect cavities, especially those that form between teeth or under existing fillings. Learn more about cavities here.

Also known as periodontal disease, dental X-rays can show signs of gum disease by revealing changes in the bone level around the teeth. Learn more about gum disease here.

An abscess is a pocket of infection that forms around the root of the tooth. X-rays are a critical part of early detection and treatment.

Teeth that have failed to emerge through the gums, commonly seen with wisdom teeth, reveal on X-rays if they need to be surgically removed.

Cysts, tumors and other pathological changes in the oral cavity can be detected with more advanced X-rays like panoramic X-rays or CBCT.

Dental X-rays can reveal bone loss in the jaw, which is important for diagnosing conditions like periodontal disease.

X-rays are vital for monitoring tooth development and are particularly useful for identifying dental issues related to tooth alignment or spacing.

If you're getting dental implants, aligners or other dental treatments, X-rays provide essential information for treatment planning.

Dental X-rays can help locate foreign objects in the teeth or gums in cases of trauma or accident. 

Digital imaging allows X-rays to be sent directly to a computer, becoming instantly available for viewing, storing or printing. 

Digital X-rays require far less radiation exposure compared to traditional film X-rays, making it safer for you.

X-rays are viewable on-screen within seconds, making consultation and treatment planning more efficient.

Digital technology offers incredible image clarity. The image can be magnified and enhanced allowing your dentist to quickly diagnose any concerns.

Need to see a specialist? Digital X-rays can be electronically sent to other providers along with your dental history.

Subtraction radiography allows your dentist to digitally compare your current and past X-rays. This can reveal even the slightest changes that otherwise may have gone unnoticed.

Dental X-rays are generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially when proper protective measures like lead aprons are used to shield the abdomen and thyroid.

The frequency of X-rays depends on your individual needs. Generally, if you’re a new patient, a set of X-rays will be taken for a comprehensive overview of your dental condition. Your dentist may recommend additional imaging based on your oral health history or if concerns are found during a routine checkup.

Yes, dental X-rays are generally considered safe, as they expose you to a very low level of radiation compared to other types of X-rays. Modern techniques and protective measures like lead aprons further minimize the risks, making the procedure safe for children and adults.

Reading dental X-rays is a specialized skill that requires training in radiology and dentistry. Your dentist is the best person to interpret these images, they typically look for abnormalities like cavities, bone loss and impacted teeth to assess your oral health needs.