Many patients know that a part of their routine dental visits is having x-ray imaging done, but few know why and that there are different types of images we take.
Why do dentists need to take X-Rays?
- Look for decay between teeth and under fillings.
o Decay isn’t always visible to the naked eye and X-Rays allow dentists to see the affected areas.
- Look for bone loss associated with gum disease.
o Gum disease (periodontitis) can cause bone loss if left untreated and X-Rays show dentists how advanced the disease is.
- To see infection at the root.
o Infections can occur at the root of the tooth where the bone is and can only be seen when using an X-Ray.
- To examine an area prior to procedure.
o Dentists need a full view of the mouth and bone prior to procedures such as implants, braces, and extractions.
*In the image above, the decay that is shown would not be visible to the naked eye. It was only detected through this X-Ray image.*
The most common type of x-rays that are taken in dental offices are Bitewings and Periapicals. These types of images show just one or several teeth in order to identify and/or diagnose conditions that may be affecting different parts of the mouth.
Ever wondered what this big machine does?
At Grand Lake Dental, we offer full mouth X-Rays as well as CT images using an advanced Panoramic imaging machine, as shown above. This type of X-ray shows problems such as bone abnormalities and fractures, cysts, impacted teeth, infections and tumors.
*The above image is an actual patients CT image. With this CT Image, Dr. Jobst is able to examine this patient in 3D format and he is able to see from every angle. With these, we are also able to communicate with specialists and radiologists because they use the same high-tech equipment. We take pride in offering CT imaging at Grand Lake Dental and believe that using the best equipment and technology sets us apart from other dental practices.*
Unlike traditional intraoral X-rays, panoramic dental X-rays are extraoral, meaning the imaging machine and film are outside of your mouth. A panoramic dental X-ray machine projects a beam through your mouth onto film or a detector that rotates opposite the X-ray tube, according to the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
*Shown above is a Panoramic Image*
X-Rays are so valuable and we use them to provide you the highest standard of care.
We look forward to seeing you at your next visit!