Dental X-Rays
Also known by the name of radiographs, dental x-rays are an important part of any treatment plan involving dental care. They are diagnostic, as well as preventative. It helps the dentist in diagnosing oral care problems in a patient’s mouth before it becomes a major issue. This type of x-ray is basically a type of energy that is absorbed by dense tissues after passing through soft tissues. X-rays penetrate easily through cheeks and gums, while the more dense bone and teeth absorb them.
What Are Dental X-Rays?
There are different kinds of dental x-rays, which capture the mouth views from different angles. The most commonly performed ones are the intraoral x-rays, including:
- Bitewing: It is mostly used for detecting cavities between teeth. It involves biting down on a particular piece of paper to ascertain how fine the crowns are matching up.
- Occlusal: A dentist performs this type of x-ray to see how your upper and bottom teeth are lined up, when your jaw is closed. It also detects anatomical irregularities.
- Panoramic: With a machine rotating about the head, the dentist checks your wisdom teeth, investigate jaw problems or prepare for dental implants.
The Process Of Getting Dental X-Ray
The procedure of dental x-ray will depend on the type of x-ray being performed. Bitewing is the most commonly employed x-ray process, where a piece of paper or plastic has an x-ray film right at the center. The patient needs to bite down on it. The dentist will place a scanner near the tooth outside the mouth, and shine radiographs through it. The film captures the required images. Whereas in digital x-rays, a sensor or electronic pad is placed in your mouth, and the captured image is sent to your computer. In panoramic x-rays, the scanner encircles your head, as you keep your chin stable on a tray.
Popular FAQs For Dental X-Rays
How often should you get dental x-rays?
Depending upon your dental condition, you may need to get an x-ray frequently, once in 6 months or a year. The dentist weighs potential risks and benefits, before recommending it to a patient.
Why do I need different x-rays?
For complete evaluation of your oral health, it may sometimes be necessary to undergo different types of dental x-rays. It has its own advantage, since each of these x-rays serve different purposes, and it helps identify the underlying causes of dental issues more accurately.
Should I be concerned about radiation?
There is a minimal amount of radiation involved in dental x-rays. You can rest assured that sufficient protection will be provided to the patient, ensuring little exposure to harmful radiation.
Why Choose Dr. Alex Dental X-Rays in NYC
With the availability of state-of-the-art dental equipment, you can be guaranteed positive results when it comes to dental x-rays. Dr Alex has many years of expertise in providing dental services that has satisfied a host of patients over the years. You can rest assured that we are passionate about meeting all our client’s dentistry needs, including dental x-rays.
Looking to get a dental x-ray done to find out the root cause of your oral issue? Contact Dr Alex Midtown NYC dental offices today to get a solution!