Family Dental Surgery
68 Cleeland Street
Dandenong 3175
Ph: 9791 2755
Information sheet from www.dandenong.localdentist.com.au

Dental x-rays

Why take x-rays?
Types of radiographs
What is the difference between x-rays and radiographs?
Why does my dentist want to take x-rays when you can see a hole in my tooth already?
I am not keen on the risks of radiation!

Why take x-rays?

• Dentists can not see what's happening on the inside of the tooth or where two teeth are tight together.
• Saves teeth, money and time to find decay early -before it has caused pain or big problems.
• To determine the size of decay or caries
• To find unerupted teeth (those not in the mouth yet) especially wisdom teeth
• Determine health of bone around teeth
• Look for signs of infection
• Evaluate the size and shape of teeth roots before extractions
• Locate the position of cysts and abscesses
• Assess broken roots or trauma to the jaws

Types of radiographs
1.Bitewing radiographs are regularly taken to look for decay. These are called 'bitewings' because we get you to bite on a 'wing' to hold the radiograph is position while we take it.
2. Periapical radiographs show the entire tooth so dentists can see the root and bone surrounding the tooth.
3. Orthpanomograms OPG's are taken to show the entire upper and lower teeth including the roots. These x-rays are not as clear as bitewings and periapicals so they are not used to look for decay. These x-rays are most commonly used when looking at wisdom teeth and for orthodontic assessments.

What is the difference between x-rays and radiographs?
The term "x-rays" and "radiographs" are used interchangeable in most medical and dental settings. Technically the x-rays are the type of radiation used to produce the image that the dentist views. The actual image is called a radiograph.

Why does my dentist want to take x-rays when you can see a hole in my tooth already?
It will save time and money to know how far the decay has progressed and where the nerve is in the tooth. Other holes may be found in the same tooth.

I am not keen on the risks of radiation!
Neither are we. Fortunately new technology has meant that we are able to limit exposure to radiographs.The radiation received from one dental x-ray is less than that received from an interstate airline flight. Remember to be careful also with televisions and other forms of household radiation. If you have any concerns with this please discuss it with the dentist.

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