Why dentists take X-rays

Much of what matters in dental health is hidden: cavities between teeth, infection at a root, bone loss around a tooth, an impacted wisdom tooth, a cyst. An X-ray lets us see what an examination alone cannot. Dentists often find problems on X-rays before the patient feels anything.

What X-rays can show

What dental X-rays show: cavities between teeth, root infection, bone level, impacted teeth

  • Cavities between teeth and under old fillings
  • Infection at the tip of a root, which often has no pain at first
  • Bone level around teeth, which helps assess gum disease
  • Impacted or unerupted teeth, such as wisdom teeth
  • Position and length of roots, needed for root canals and implants
  • Cysts or other changes in the jaw
  • Development in children, such as whether adult teeth are present

Types of dental X-ray

  • Bitewing: shows the crowns of upper and lower back teeth, mainly for cavities between teeth.
  • Periapical (IOPA): shows an entire tooth from crown to root and the surrounding bone. Used often for toothache and root canals.
  • OPG (panoramic): shows both jaws, all teeth and the jaw joints in one image.
  • CBCT (3D scan): a 3D image used for implant planning, wisdom teeth near nerves and complex cases.

How much radiation is it?

A single small dental X-ray gives a very low dose, comparable to a small fraction of the natural background radiation we all receive each day. Modern digital X-rays use less radiation than older film. We also use a lead apron and thyroid collar where appropriate, and we take only the X-rays that are useful for your care.

How often do you need them?

It depends on you, not on a fixed calendar. People who get cavities often, or who have gum disease or major dental work, may need X-rays more regularly than someone with a low-risk mouth. We follow the principle of taking only what is needed, when it is needed.

Pregnancy

Dental X-rays are generally avoided unless needed, and many problems can wait until after delivery. If you are or might be pregnant, always tell us. If treatment is urgent, we will discuss whether an X-ray is necessary and take precautions, in consultation with your doctor where appropriate.

Children

Children's teeth and jaws are still developing, so X-rays can show important information. We take them only when there is a clear reason, with protection, and use the lowest practical dose.

Questions to ask

  • Why do you need this X-ray?
  • What will it tell you that an exam cannot?
  • Can I see the image and understand what it shows?

We are always happy to show you your X-ray on screen and point out what we see. If you want to understand more about root treatment, see our root canal guide, or how an implant is planned.

Book a check-up at Bite Dental: A-52, Meera Bagh, New Delhi 110087 (+91 75339 51611) or MedHarbour Hospital, 1st Floor, Room 222, Sector 51, Gurugram 122003 (+91 98106 64561). Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 8 pm. This article is general information and not a substitute for an examination.