Dental x-rays show the dental team much more than we can see just by having patients open their mouths. Depending on what type of radiograph is updated, they can show different things that help diagnose issues with our oral health.
Contents
Annual Bitewings
Our recommended yearly x-rays are called bitewings. Every year, we take anywhere from 4-6 (depending on the patient’s mouth and needs). Bitewings allow the clinician to see several different parts of the mouth.
- Bone levels – Bitewings show where the patient’s jaw bone is around the teeth.
- In between teeth – While looking in the mouth, you can feel in between the teeth but cannot see. The x-rays show if hardened tartar is present, cavities, or an abnormality.
There are two other forms of x-rays that are recommended at Cedarwood Dentistry. They are Panorex x-rays and Full Mouth Series.
Panorex X-rays
Our office will update either of these x-rays when it is indicated — usually every 3-5 years. The Panorex is updated around six years of age when children first get their permanent molars in. The Panorex shows all the adult tooth buds and allows the dentist to see if the child has all their permanent dentition present. In addition, the Panorex enables clinicians to see the full view of wisdom teeth, jawbones, sinus, and the TMJ joint for teenagers and adults. This x-ray type has allowed our dental team to find cysts present under wisdom teeth and missing teeth on children just within the past year!
Full Mouth Series X-rays
The Full Mouth Series is an individual look at all of a patient’s teeth. From the root to the crown and the nerves of the teeth, we can see a full view of the entire mouth. These x-rays are helpful to update for adult patients who have had a significant dental history with several cavities or periodontitis.
Why X-rays Are Essential for Dental Health
Ultimately, this allows the dentist to have a complete evaluation — seeing all the parts of the patient’s mouth and clearly diagnosing the patient’s health.
Without x-rays, we cannot fully diagnose our patients’ teeth. When patients ask us not to take x-rays or skip a year, we essentially provide them with an incomplete exam. At Cedarwood Dentistry, we allow patients to make choices concerning their own health in some capacity, but eventually, we will have to take these x-rays to maintain a high level of care.
Make an appointment today for a comprehensive exam and complete assessment of your dental health!