What is a Dental X-Ray?
A dental x-ray, otherwise known as a radiograph, is a type of image that allows us to see through the inside of the tooth and the surrounding structures of the bone.
When are Dental X-Rays Taken?
Dental x-rays are important because there are certain things that cannot be seen with the naked eye. A dentist or other dental professional is going to take appropriate x-rays as needed to make an accurate diagnosis of a particular area.
What is the Purpose of Dental X-Rays?
The purpose of a dental x-ray is to show the doctor and the patient any additional information that we cannot get by seeing something with the naked eye. The goal of a dental x-ray is to provide additional diagnostic information so we can get an accurate diagnosis and then eventually a treatment plan.
What are the Different Types of Dental X-Rays and How are They Used?
There are a number of different types of dental x-rays. One is known as a bitewing x-ray, which looks mainly in the back, the posterior of the back teeth that allows us to really detect cavities. Another one is a PA, known as a periapical x-ray, that shows around the end of the tooth to see if there's any kind of acute infection in that area. A full mouth series of x-rays is a combination of these x-rays in different parts of the mouth. There's also a panoramic radiograph, commonly called a pano, which shows around all the structures in addition to the teeth. We also use a cone beam CT or CBCT, a three-dimensional image, to look at over more of the head and neck regions in 3D.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Fortunately, dental x-rays are very safe. With advances in technology, we can still get the same quality image with much lower radiation today.
What Do Dental X-Rays Show?
Dental x-rays are used to show any disease process that occurred in addition to anything that we can see in the mouth.
Can Dental X-Rays Show Periodontal Disease?
X-rays provide a lot of diagnostic information. If there's advanced dental disease, including periodontal disease, many times that can be seen on an x-ray. However, there are times where an x-ray will still look normal and there will already be a disease process occurring in its early to middle stages.
Are Dental X-Rays Covered by Insurance?
Dental insurance is a third-party payer that allows for certain treatments to be performed depending on the individual plan. Many times, diagnostic information will be covered by dental insurance. However, there are limitations on what images can be taken or how often they can be taken. It's important for the dental professional to have accurate insurance information ahead of time so he can evaluate what the benefits are.
When Should I Schedule a Dental Exam?
A dental exam should always be scheduled so the patient has an appropriate time frame from the last visit and concludes the continuation of care. So, if you've recently had a visit, you may not need a dental exam immediately. However, most patients would go sometime between exams. So, please go ahead and make a visit soon for any indicated care.
How Can I Reach Out for More Information or to Schedule an Appointment?
Please give us a call at (850) 909-9731 so we can help serve you with your dental needs.