Dental X-rays
Digital radiography – bringing the insides out!
Dental X-rays Canley Heights
Dental X-rays are digital images of your teeth that your Canley Heights dentist use to assess your dental and overall oral health.
They use low levels of radiation to take images of the insides of your teeth and gums. This helps your dentist spot oral problems like cavities, tooth decay, and impacted teeth.
Dental X-rays may seem complex, but they’re a common treatment that is just as significant as teeth cleanings.
Importance of Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are usually taken annually. They may be done more often if your dentist is monitoring the progress of an existing dental problem or procedure.
The factors influencing how often you undergo dental X-rays may include:
- age
- current oral health status
- any symptoms of an oral disease
- a history of periodontal disease or cavities
Common Types of X-rays
There are three basic types of “intraoral” X-rays. Each type is useful in its own way.
Bitewing X-rays
Split evenly between the upper and lower parts of the jaw, bitewing X-rays allow your dentist to detect evidence of tooth decay and bone loss in the crown and sub-gum portions of your teeth. Bitewing X-rays generally image the rear halves of the upper and lower jaws.
Periapical X-rays
These are used to study the root structures of teeth in detail. They may be able to point out the source of nerve pain and may also be able to detect impacted or excess teeth below the surface of the gums. Periapical X-rays are often used as a precursor to periodontic work, endodontic therapy and root canal treatment.
Occlusal X-rays
This special type of X-ray is used to study the bone structures of the upper and lower jaws. Occlusal X-rays may be able to detect evidence of tumours or bone loss as well as blockages in the salivary ducts.
Preparation for Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays don’t require any specific preparations. Brush your teeth before your X-ray appointment to create a cleaner environment for those working inside your mouth. X-rays are usually performed before cleanings.
The X-ray machine is placed along your head to take and record images of your teeth and mouth.
Your dental hygienist will guide you through each step of the procedure. Hold still while the images are being taken and recorded.
Spacers will be moved and adjusted in your mouth to capture the proper images.
After Dental X-rays
Your Canley Heights dentist will study your X-rays and check for abnormalities. If problems such as cavities or gum issues are spotted, they’ll discuss your treatment options.
Dental X-rays in Canley Heights
At Canley Heights Dental Care, we provide a wide range of dental services that will help you maintain your oral health and prevent dental issues from occurring, including dental X-rays.
To know more about dental X-rays in Canley Heights, please call us on (02) 9199 9678 or book your appointment online.
We are located at 1/229 Canley Vale Road in Canley Heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental X-rays necessary?
However, a lot of things can go on beneath the gumline or inside of teeth themselves that dentists cannot see with their naked eyes. X-rays tool can provide early warning of potential problems, allowing for treatment before the problems become much bigger issues.