X-ray Imaging in Dental Care

Bitewing X-rays (BW) and periapical images

Bitewing X-rays are taken of the back teeth separately on both sides. The device is compact, so images can be taken directly in the treatment room. They help locate, for example, cavities forming between teeth that are not visible from the outside and may therefore go unnoticed during a dental examination. BW X-rays also allow us to see beneath old fillings, among other things.

A bitewing X-ray is “intraoral,” meaning the sensor is inside the mouth.

A periapical X-ray (also known as a “dental X-ray”) provides an image of one or more teeth, extending down to the tips of the roots.

Full-mouth X-ray, also known as orthopantomography (OPTG/PTG)

An orthopantomogram, or panoramic X-ray, provides a comprehensive overview of the health of the teeth and jaws, as well as any previous treatments, all at once. The teeth are visible down to their roots, although not in as much detail as in intraoral bitewing or periapical X-rays.

For example, infections of the tooth root can pose a risk to overall health even when they are asymptomatic, and they are often detectable only through an X-ray.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Cone-beam computed tomography is sometimes more colloquially referred to as a “3D X-ray.” It provides a more detailed three-dimensional image of the subject. Reasons for using CBCT may include, for example:

• Planning dental implant treatment
• A more detailed examination of the jawbone, e.g., monitoring the osseointegration of bone grafts and dental implants
• Preparation for the extraction of a more challenging tooth
• Examination of the position of unerupted teeth
• for assessing inflammation at the root tip of a tooth
• Support for root canal treatment
• Examination of the sinuses (e.g., to identify mucosal swelling or structural abnormalities)

Cephalometric imaging

In orthodontic treatment for children and adolescents, as well as in oral and maxillofacial surgery, a cephalometric X-ray—that is, an image taken precisely from the side of the head—may be required. This provides a view showing the positions of the teeth and jaws in relation to the skull.

For cephalometric imaging, you will be referred to an external X-ray laboratory. Other X-rays can be taken at Ebeling Dental clinics, usually during the same visit.

Safety in X-ray Imaging

X-rays are harmful in large and frequent doses. However, the radiation dose received during imaging is so small that imaging is safe. For example, the radiation dose from a bitewing X-ray is comparable to the natural background radiation dose received in a single day—while the dose from a cone-beam CT scan is equivalent to about a week or two of background radiation. An exception is pregnancy, as the risks posed by radiation to the developing fetus are more significant. So be sure to tell your dentist if you are pregnant or suspect you might be.