Dental radiographs—commonly called X-rays—are an important part of keeping your smile healthy. Dentists use them to see what can’t always be spotted with the naked eye, such as:
- Hidden dental structures
- Cavities (even in the very early stages)
- Bone loss and gum disease
- Oral infections
- Benign or malignant masses (tumors)
- Lower Radiation Exposure
Digital X-rays use up to 80% less radiation than traditional film X-rays, making them a much safer choice for patients of all ages. - Early Detection = Better Care
By detecting issues like cavities, gum disease, infections, and tumors early, digital X-rays help prevent problems from becoming more serious—and save you from more complex treatments later. - Clearer, Faster Results
Images appear instantly on a computer screen, giving your dentist a clear and detailed look right away. This means you can see what your dentist sees and better understand your treatment options. - Comfortable and Eco-Friendly
The digital process is quicker, doesn’t require film or chemicals, and is more comfortable for patients—while also being kinder to the environment. - Easier to Share
Digital images can be securely stored and shared with specialists if needed, helping coordinate your care smoothly.
Digital dental X-rays are safe, fast, and reliable. They allow your dentist to catch potential problems at their earliest stages—so you can enjoy a healthier smile with greater peace of mind.
When you come in for a dental visit, you may hear your dentist talk about taking dental X-rays (radiographs). While they might just look like pictures of your teeth, they give us a deeper look at your oral health — showing things we can’t always see during a regular exam.
Dental radiographs (commonly called X-rays) are images of your teeth, gums, and jaw taken with low levels of radiation. They allow your dentist to detect problems early, often before you feel pain or notice anything unusual.
X-rays help us:
- Detect cavities between teeth
- Check the health of your tooth roots and surrounding bone
- Monitor tooth development in children
- Identify infections, abscesses, or cysts
- Track changes over time for ongoing treatments
- Simply put, they’re one of the most valuable tools we have for keeping your mouth healthy.
There are several kinds of dental radiographs, each designed to show a different part of your mouth:
1. Bitewing X-rays
Show the upper and lower teeth in one area.
Commonly used to detect cavities between teeth and check bone levels.
2. Periapical X-rays
Focus on one or two specific teeth, from crown to root.
Useful for diagnosing abscesses, root issues, or bone changes.
3. Full Mouth Series (FMX)
A complete set of X-rays showing all teeth and surrounding bone.
Typically taken every few years for a full overview of oral health.
4. Panoramic X-ray
Captures the entire mouth in a single image, including teeth, jaw, sinuses, and joints.
Often used for wisdom teeth, orthodontic planning, or checking jaw problems.
5. Occlusal X-rays
Show the full arch of teeth on the top or bottom jaw.
Helpful for spotting extra teeth, impacted teeth, or jaw fractures.
6. Cephalometric (Ceph) X-ray
A side-view X-ray of the head.
Mainly used in orthodontics to plan braces and track growth.
7. Cone Beam CT Scan (CBCT)
A 3D scan of the teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures.
Provides detailed images for implants, oral surgery, and TMJ evaluations.
Yes! Dental X-rays use very low radiation, and modern digital technology reduces exposure even further. Plus, lead aprons and thyroid collars add extra protection. For most patients, the benefits of early diagnosis far outweigh the minimal risks.
It depends on your age, dental history, and risk level. Some patients may only need X-rays every couple of years, while others (especially children, or those with a history of dental problems) may need them more frequently.
Dental X-rays are a quick, safe, and powerful way to protect your smile. If it’s been a while since your last set, schedule an appointment today — early detection is the key to long-term oral health.
Tomography Sagittal sections of implants. Position 11
Tomography Sagittal sections of implants. Position 21
Panoramic & Periapical
The intraoral camera is small, roughly the size of a standard dental mirror, and features a built-in light source. With this small camera, we can easily identify problems such as tooth decay, cracked or broken fillings, cracked teeth and signs of gum disease among others to help us create an effective treatment plan.
