Even though your dentist can get a good idea of what is going on with your oral health just by looking at your teeth and your mouth, it is often necessary to get a more in-depth look with an x-ray. Thanks to modern technology, dental x-rays are far easier to obtain, and they have become an integral part of ordinary dental care.
Types of Dental X-Rays Commonly Performed
Just like x-rays done on other parts of the body, dental x-rays (intraoral or extraoral x-rays) can be done in different ways and from varying angles. Intraoral x-rays are primarily focused on the teeth while extraoral x-rays are more focused on the jaws and bones that support the teeth. Common types of intraoral x-rays include:
- Occlusal x-rays – Captures the full row of teeth in upper or lower jaw.
- Periapical x-rays – Shows a full tooth and its position in the jaw bone.
- Bite-wing x-rays – Gives a view of specific teeth in one area of the mouth.
Types of extraoral x-rays include:
- Panoramic x-rays – Shows complete panoramic views of both upper and lower jaws and teeth.
- Cephalometric projections – X-ray that shows the entire full-view side of the head.
- Computed tomography (CT scan) – Shows interior structures as a three-dimensional image.
- Sialography – Used to examine the salivary glands.
Common Reasons Patients Need Dental X-Rays
Most dentists prefer to take x-rays when you go in for a visit for the first time. However, beyond this initial examination, you may also need x-rays if:
- You have a damaged tooth
- Your dentist suspects there are bone issues causing problems with your oral health
- You have impacted wisdom teeth
- You have symptoms of temporomandibular disorders
- Before crown, bridge, or implant placement
Find Out More About Dental X-Rays in Medina, OH
Getting good x-rays allows the dentist to make educated decisions about how to proceed with certain oral health treatments. Therefore, they are an important part of your care. Reach out to us at Evanko Dental Group of Medina to find out more about x-rays of your mouth.
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