Practice Limited to Periodontics & Dental Implants
5162 E Stop 11 Road Suite 2
Indianapolis, IN 46237
Tel:
(317) 888-3322
Toll Free:
(866) 988-3322
Dental X-Ray
Dental x-rays show parts of the teeth and the surrounding structures of the teeth that cannot be seen any other way. Periodontists need to have a current full-mouth series of periapical x-rays (about 14 to 21 X-ray films) taken within the last 2 years in order to properly diagnose your condition. If your dentist has recently taken a set, then we will be happy to copy them and return the x-rays to your dentist. If you do not have a resent set of x-rays, we will be happy to take them.
The following types of dental x-rays are commonly used. The x-rays use small amounts of radiation.
Bite-wing Radiographs
Bitewing x-rays show the upper and lower back teeth and how the teeth touch each other in a single view. These X-rays are used to check for decay between the teeth and to show how well the upper and lower teeth line up. They also show bone loss when severe gum disease or a dental infection is present.
Periapical Radiographs
Periapical x-rays show the entire tooth, from the exposed crown to the end of the root and the bones that support the tooth. These x-rays are used to find dental problems below the gum line or in the jaw, such as impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts, tumors, and bone changes linked to some diseases. These are a series of small x-rays that a periodontist needs to have taken within the last 2 years.
Panoramic Radiographs
Panoramic x-rays show a broad view of the jaws, teeth, sinuses, nasal area, and temporomandibular (jaw) joints. It is usually one large x-ray. This type of x-ray does not show the detail needed by a periodontist to properly diagnose gum problems or to evaluate the extend of the gum problem.
Why is it done?
Dental x-rays are done to:
- Find problems in the mouth such as tooth decay, damage to the bones supporting the teeth, and dental injuries (such as broken tooth roots). Dental X-rays are often done to find these problems early, before any symptoms are present.
- Find teeth that are not in the right place or do not break through the gum properly. Teeth that are too crowded to break through the gums are called impacted.
- Find cysts, solid growths (tumors), or abscesses.
- Check for the location of permanent teeth growing in the jaw in children who still have their primary (or baby) teeth.
- Plan treatment for large or extensive cavities, root canal surgery, placement of dental implants, and difficult tooth removals.