Using X-rays, your dentist can catch oral problems in the early stages and start treatment as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment prevent problems from worsening and causing permanent damage or tooth loss. For example, while mild gum disease (gingivitis) is incredibly treatable in the early stages, severe gum disease (periodontitis) is a serious infection that can lead to abscess development, bone loss and tooth loss.<\/p>\n

4 Types of Dental X-Rays<\/h2>\n

There are several types of dental X-rays that provide your dentist with different views of the oral cavity. Here are the 4 most common:<\/p>\n

1.) Bitewing X-rays.<\/strong> Bitewing X-rays provide a view of the crowns and the spaces between teeth. They\u2019re used to detect cavities and the amount of decay present.<\/p>\n

2.) Periapical X-rays.<\/strong> Periapical X-rays provide a full view of teeth from crown to root. Your dentist may use this view to study an isolated problem in more detail.<\/p>\n

3.) Occlusal X-rays.<\/strong> Occlusal X-rays provide a view of an entire section of teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They\u2019re used to study the bone structure in the jaw and detect impacted or emerging teeth. Occlusal X-rays are also used to check the health of the floor and roof of the mouth.<\/p>\n

4.) Panoramic X-rays.<\/strong> Unlike bitewing and periapical X-rays, panoramic X-rays are taken from outside the mouth. They provide a view of the full oral cavity: teeth, upper and lower jaw and sinuses. This view is used to identify jaw disorders, bone irregularities, impacted teeth, wisdom teeth, cysts, abscesses and tumors.<\/p>\n