Dental X-rays are incredibly important in the field of dentistry. They allow dentists to inspect teeth and bone structures in the mouth without performing invasive surgery. Dental X-rays are used before fillings, crowns and other implants and teeth straightening devices are affixed as well as to detect abnormalities in the mouth. X-rays use radiation to take photographs of bone tissues. In this blog post we discuss the safety of X-rays and reiterate that, despite any negative perception of the treatment, they are harmless. 

Types of X-Rays 

There are four primary types of X-rays used in dentistry: bitewing X-rays, Periapical X-rays, Panoramic X-rays and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography X-rays.  

Bitewing X-rays: Bitewing X-rays show the upper and lower teeth’s crowns (the visible portion above the gumline). Patients bite down on a special X-ray film or sensor, which helps the dentist capture these images. They are used to identify cavities, evaluate the fit of fillings or crowns and monitor changes in bone density resulting from gum disease. 

Periapical X-rays: Periapical X-rays focus on one or two teeth from root to crown. They produce images of each entire tooth and are used to evaluate tooth structural stability, diagnose oral cysts and tumours and identify abnormal positioning of teeth. 

Panoramic X-rays: Panoramic X-rays provide a single, wide-angle view of the entire mouth. Patients stand or sit while the X-ray machine rotates around their head. They’re used to assess overall dental and jaw health, examine impacted wisdom teeth and plan orthodontic treatment or jaw surgery. 

Cone-Beam Computer Tomography X-rays: CBCT X-rays are a type of 3D imaging that provides a detailed, three-dimensional view of the mouth, teeth, and jawbone. They are used to plan dental implant placement, diagnose complex dental disorders like temporomandibular joint disorder and assess bone quality before oral surgery. 

The Dental X-ray Procedure 

When you arrive at the dentist’s office, you will need to complete paperwork and provide a medical history. Be sure to notify the staff if you are pregnant or have any medical conditions that may affect the treatment. You will be provided with a lead apron to wear during the procedure. The lead absorbs any excess radiation and thus protects your organs from being subjected to gamma rays unnecessarily. After you have donned the apron you will be escorted to the X-ray machine where you will sit in a chair. For intraoral X-rays (bitewings and periapical), a sensor or film is placed inside your mouth, and you’ll be asked to bite down gently. For panoramic or CBCT X-rays, you’ll stand or sit still while the machine moves around your head. Dentists will leave the room during the X-rays, but will communicate with you the whole time using an intercom. 

Risks and Concerns 

Some patients worry about receiving a dose of radiation during a dental X-ray. The fact is that the level of radiation used is minimal. Indeed, the risk is considered negligible when compared to the diagnostic benefits. Pregnant women should avoid X-rays when possible, however, if absolutely necessary, a pregnancy-friendly apron can be worn to shield the fetus from radiation. At the end of the day, dental X-rays are completely harmless and are a necessary tool used by dentists during diagnosis of oral conditions. 

Contact Ballan Family Dental Today! 

At Ballan Family Dental, we are committed to providing the best dental care for your child. If you’re interested in dental sealants or have any questions about your child’s oral health, don’t hesitate to contact us at 03 4310 3811. We look forward to helping your child maintain a healthy and cavity-free smile for years to come. Schedule an appointment with us today to take the first step toward protecting your child’s dental health.