While you might like to think your dental practitioner is a superhero possessing the special vision that can see through objects and protect against danger; however, he or she must rely on X-Ray which will help them to see what lies beneath the hard surface of your teeth.
Below, your dentist in White Bear Lake MN has compiled a list of different types of X-Rays and what exactly they are used for.
Bitewing x-rays check upper and lower teeth in a single view and check for decay between teeth as well as show how upper and lower teeth align and whether there is any bone loss if gum disease is detected.
Periapical x-rays show the entire tooth from the exposed crown to root end or to put it another way ‘the tooth and nothing but the tooth.’ Such x-rays detect cysts, impacted wisdom teeth, abscesses, tumors and bone changes.
Occlusal x-rays show roof or floor of the mouth to detect jaw fractures, cleft palate, growths, teeth that have yet to break through the gums.
Panoramic x-rays show a broad view of jaws, teeth, sinuses, nasal area, and temporomandibular (Jaw) joints. Digital Radiography can be sent directly to a computer to be recorded and saved.
If your visit is a first initial exam you will likely be given 14 to 21 Periapical x-rays. Bitewings are done for routine check-ups. Panoramic X-rays are used occasionally. If you follow the protocol of visiting for routine check-ups twice a year, you may only need new x-rays taken every two years as compared to those with the history of gum disease and other chronic dental problems who need x-rays taken more frequently.
Whether traditional x-ray or digital radiography, prepare to be covered with a heavy lead apron as you sit upright in a chair. You will then be asked to bite down (Gently) on a small piece of cardboard or plastic that is put in your mouth area by a dentist or dental technician. This square of cardboard is the x-ray film. While holding this cardboard may bring a ‘gag’ response, the overall procedure is simple and painless and a necessity to find any deep problems that might be lurking under that beautiful white enamel.