A dental X-ray allows the dentist to see detailed images of specific sections
of your mouth. Traditional X-ray film is developed in a darkroom, but a newer
technique allows X-ray images to be sent to a computer and viewed on a screen. Various
types of dental X-rays are available, including:
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| Dental X-Rays |
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Bitewing. This type of X-ray allows the dentist to see
the crowns of the upper and lower teeth. During a bitewing X-ray, you'll bite
down on the X-ray film holder while the X-ray images are being taken.
·
Periapical. This type of X-ray allows the dentist to see
the entire tooth and the surrounding bone.
·
Occlusal. This type of X-ray allows the dentist to see
the way the upper teeth and corresponding lower teeth fit together when the jaw
is closed.
·
Panoramic. This type of X-ray gives the dentist a broad
view of the entire mouth.
X-rays aren't typically needed at every
dental visit. Radiation exposure from dental X-rays is low — but talk to your
dentist if you're concerned about radiation exposure.
Oral cancer exam
During your dental exam, your dentist or hygienist will look for any signs of oral cancer. He or she will feel the area under your jaw, the sides of your neck, and the insides of your lips and cheeks, as well as examine your tongue and the roof and floor of your mouth.
During your dental exam, your dentist or hygienist will look for any signs of oral cancer. He or she will feel the area under your jaw, the sides of your neck, and the insides of your lips and cheeks, as well as examine your tongue and the roof and floor of your mouth.
Dental impression
In some cases, the dentist might recommend making a dental impression of one or both jaws to produce a replica of your teeth and oral tissue. This can help the dentist or hygienist evaluate your bite or make a mouth guard or bleaching trays. The dentist or hygienist will fill horseshoe-shaped trays with a soft, gelatin-like material and place them over your upper or lower teeth. After a few minutes, the trays are removed and used to create a dental cast or replica of your mouth. The dentist might also have you bite down on a soft material to record and evaluate your bite.
In some cases, the dentist might recommend making a dental impression of one or both jaws to produce a replica of your teeth and oral tissue. This can help the dentist or hygienist evaluate your bite or make a mouth guard or bleaching trays. The dentist or hygienist will fill horseshoe-shaped trays with a soft, gelatin-like material and place them over your upper or lower teeth. After a few minutes, the trays are removed and used to create a dental cast or replica of your mouth. The dentist might also have you bite down on a soft material to record and evaluate your bite.
Results
After your dental
exam, the dentist or hygienist will discuss your oral health, including your
risk of tooth decay, gum disease and any other oral health problems, and
preventive measures you can take to improve and protect your oral health. The
dentist or hygienist will also recommend the best time to return for a
follow-up visit — typically every six months. If you're at high risk of tooth
decay or gum disease or have other oral health problems, the dentist or
hygienist might recommend more-frequent checkups.
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