It seems like every time you go in for a checkup, your dentist wants an x-ray taken. This is because it’s important for identifying problems that can’t easily be seen otherwise. While it’s not exactly the most fun thing to do, taking dental x-rays is crucial for your oral health. Let’s take a closer look at the 3 types of x-rays there are and what issues they can detect.
Bitewing X-Rays
As the name implies, these x-rays involve biting down on a wing-shaped piece of film while the picture is being taken. This is the only way that your dentist can determine whether there is decay in between your teeth, since it cannot be seen with the naked eye. Your dentist will ask you to take 4 bitewing x-rays, one for each quadrant of your mouth. Most dental professionals recommend getting bitewing x-rays done once a year. A lot can change in your teeth in that amount of time, and it never hurts to be prepared for potential dental issues.
Periapical X-Rays
These dental x-rays, commonly called PAs, focus on one or two teeth in great detail. They look similar to a bitewing x-ray. However, they only show a couple of teeth, all the way from the root to the crown. Your dentist will probably suggest a periapical x-ray if you have a toothache. That way he or she can see if there are any problems, such as a dental abscess, that might need serious treatment.
Panoramic X-Rays
Have you ever gone into a dentist’s office and been asked to place your chin on a stirrup while a machine moves around your head? That’s a panoramic x-ray. It captures your entire mouth to get a picture of how your jaw looks overall. Dentists and oral surgeons typically use these to check on the status of your wisdom teeth and how your bite fits together as a whole. They are also used when orthodontic treatment is needed.
As you can see, dental x-rays are very important for evaluating your oral health, and each one serves a different yet crucial purpose. They can help diagnose any serious problems that may come up. Don’t be afraid the next time your dentist asks to take a picture of your mouth!
About the Practice
At Prime Dentistry in Denton, TX, our goal is to make going to the dentist’s office not feel like a chore. We forge strong relationships with our patients to help them look forward to visiting the office. We use only the most high-quality, up-to-date dental technology, including x-rays. To learn more about our wonderful practice, contact us here or call (940) 514-0333.
