A dental X-ray is a radiographic examination that helps the doctor see what cannot be seen with the naked eye: caries, a fractured tooth, changes in the jaw bones. Let us look at what types of X-rays exist, what they show, and what is taken into account when examining children.
What types of dental X-rays exist
X-rays can be used to examine bones, teeth, and lungs; in dentistry they are used, among other things, to detect caries. A panoramic X-ray (orthopantomogram, OPG) shows all teeth with the jaws and adjacent parts of the facial skeleton. Orthopantomography can be digital or film-based, but film-based has hardly been used in recent years. The digital option reduces time and radiation dose and produces a high-quality image that can be processed and stored in an electronic archive.
Periapical and panoramic X-rays: what is the difference
A panoramic X-ray "unfolds" the bones of the facial skeleton into a single plane and is considered a primary radiological examination. It shows the overall picture: all teeth, jaws, and paranasal sinuses.
3D dental X-ray: what volumetric imaging shows
Computed tomography is needed when more detailed images are required than a conventional X-ray provides.
What the doctor sees on an X-ray
Based on the orthopantomogram report, the doctor assesses the condition of the hard tissues of the tooth: caries, fracture, a defect in an area, additional canals, instruments in the canal, neoplasms. Changes in the periodontium, jaw bones, and adjacent facial skeleton are visible — fractures, inflammatory processes, the condition of cavities in the bones. Soft tissues, foreign bodies, and the area around an implant are assessed separately. The X-ray helps monitor the stages of treatment: the quality of root canal filling, posts, and implants.
- Caries and defects of hard tissues
- An additional canal and tooth fracture
- Jaw bones and sinuses
- Monitoring of fillings and implants
X-rays of children's teeth: features and safety
X-rays are generally very safe, and serious complications are rare; with a large number of examinations there is a very small risk that radiation could cause cancer, so the doctor assesses the risks before ordering it and discusses them with the patient. Before the X-ray, the patient is asked about pregnancy or the possibility of it, about medications, and about allergies.
When the dentist orders an X-ray
An X-ray is ordered when examination alone is insufficient: for caries, fracture, periodontal changes, pathologies of the jaw bones and soft tissues, during implantation, and to monitor treatment already performed. Dental X-rays are usually taken right in the dental clinic; the procedure itself takes minutes and is not felt. The doctor explains the results and also decides whether additional examinations are needed. The choice of method — periapical, panoramic, or volumetric — is made by the patient and the dentist together.
A dental X-ray by itself is not a reason to call emergency services. Call 103 or 112 only in a life-threatening condition, such as a severe injury.
This material is for reference: it helps you understand what the doctor is talking about but does not replace a consultation with a dentist.
Sources
Update history
Reader reviews
No reviews yet — tell us whether this article was helpful.
Leave a review
This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer