Dental X-Rays

Dental x-rays or radiographs are images that show the healthy and unhealthy structures of the teeth and the bony structures supporting them.
When X-rays pass through the hard and soft tissues in one's mouth while taking films, the x-ray beam is blocked by the heavier structures, like the teeth, jaw, and bones, more than by soft tissues, like the cheeks, tongue, and gums. This creates a differential image on the x-ray film, with darker and lighter shades of grays to black. Teeth appear lighter because fewer x-rays go through the teeth to reach the film. Cavities and gum disease (shown by a hole in a tooth or loss of some bone holding the roots of the teeth) appear darker because of more X-ray penetration. The dentist looks for the pathology, dental disease, on the developed films, and then can accurately detect and treat diseases of the teeth and jaws that cannot be seen by the unaided eye.
Bitewing or "cavity detecting" x-rays are periodically taken at dental recare appointments and show decay in between the teeth, and potential gum problems by showing the bone level around the gum line of the teeth.
A complete set of children's x-rays consist of 6-8 films, and an adult's full series of x-rays consists of 20-28 films.
A panoramic x-ray is a dental x-ray that shows the entire jaw. It shows many areas that can't be seen in a complete set of x-rays, such as wisdom teeth, the sinus area, and the tempero-mandibular joints and the skull they articulate with.
Dental x-rays are extremely safe, with the new fast speed film using less radiation than ever. A panoramic x-ray that shows the entire jaw uses the same radiation as 2-3 small films. The radiation used in a routine periodic x-ray exam is equal to the amount of radiation one would get while spending a day hiking in the mountains or at the beach. Dental x-rays are taken when one needs to check for decay, pathology, and to determine growth and development of the teeth and jaws for children and adults. In order to give the best care, we use advanced dental materials and techniques, including diagnostic x-rays. We use the minimum dosages, protective lead aprons, and the most advanced equipment and techniques available.
Looking at the teeth without x-rays misses over 60% of dental decay. A tooth may be abscessed without any of pain or swelling. Only an x-ray can show this. It can also show the condition, size and eruption path of the permanent teeth under the primary teeth. We can see if there are missing or extra teeth, or if teeth are being impacted (not able to come in).

Center for Pediatric Dental Care * 1560 Beacon Street * Brookline, MA 02446 * 617-731-KIDS (5437)