Types of dental X-ray

 

The dental X-ray - An image of the teeth and jaws that provides information for the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions that can threaten oral and general health. The part to be imaged is placed between a tube emitting X-rays and a photographic film. Because X-rays are unable to pass easily through hard tissue, a shadow of the teeth and bone is seen on the film. There are three types of dental X-ray: periapical X-ray, bite-wing X-ray, and panoramic X-ray.

Periapical X-rays are taken using X-ray film held behind the teeth. They give detailed images of whole teeth and the surrounding tissues. They can show unerupted or impacted teeth, root fractures, abscesses, cysts, and tumours, and can help diagnose some skeletal diseases. Bite-wing X-rays show the crowns of the teeth and can detect areas of decay and changes in bone due to periodontal disease. Panoramic X-rays show all the teeth and the surrounding structures on one large film. They can show unerupted or impacted teeth, as well as cysts, jaw fractures, or tumours.

The amount of radiation received from dental X-rays is extremely small; however, routine dental X-rays should be avoided during pregnancy.