Understanding dental X-rays and their importance.

Dental X-rays

What are they?

X-rays pass through your body and make an image on a special type of film or through an electronic detector. The image produced, the X-ray photograph, is called a radiograph. Radiographs allow the dentist to see what is happening deep inside the tooth and its roots. They will show any decay or gum disease, bone loss and, in children, how the jaw is growing, too. The films are usually placed in special holders to make sure they sit in the right place in relation to your teeth and jaws.

Dentists use these types of X-ray films or images:

  • A ‘bitewing’ film is gripped between your teeth. The radiograph then shows the areas in between the teeth, but not the roots.
  • A ‘periapical’ film is placed next to the tooth, and the image shows the whole of the tooth and its root.
  • There are also large radiographs, which show all of the jaw and teeth. These are called ‘panoramic’ images. The machine that takes them moves around your head, while you stand or sit still.
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What happens?

Trained members of the dentist’s team can take radiographs, as well as the dentist. Training makes sure that everyone who takes radiographs takes them safely and so that they are clear to read. Radiographs require tiny amounts of radiation. If you are concerned about safety, it may be helpful to know that:

  • The amount of radiation involved in taking a dental X-ray photograph is very low; two dental X-rays expose you to a similar amount of radiation as a flight from London to Bucharest.
  • Your dentist will only take radiographs if they are needed and takes courses to remain up-to-date.
  • X-ray machines are checked regularly to make sure that they are only using the intended amount of radiation.
  • You can still have dental radiographs when you are pregnant; your dentist may still ask you whether you are pregnant, or whether you might be, just to check in case you would rather not have an X-ray taken at that time.
Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays

When the radiograph is taken

You will need to keep very still for a few seconds to give a clear picture. The film is usually developed while you wait and then labelled.

Sometimes it is useful for the dentist to compare a new picture with one taken some time ago. Your dentist will keep old images in your file.

Dental X-rays

What are the benefits?

Many forms of dental treatment rely on radiographs. Simply looking into your mouth cannot give the dentist as much information as looking below the surface with X-rays. Radiographs allow your dentist to check on the state of your previous dental work, as well as identify any new problems, such as decay or bone loss.

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“I would like to highly commend this practice. I have been to some pretty dreadful dentists over the years, and this practice is a refreshing change. Everyone there (without exception) is always (without exception) friendly…”

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“In Bath on a visit and needed to attend an emergency appointment for my family member. We were treated with kindness and professionalism by all members of staff from the call through to payment. Excellent…”

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“Cracked half of my filling and decided to register and get treatment with Manor Dental. X-rays and a scan of my teeth were taken professionally. Decided to have a filling without injections and virtually pain-free.…”

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“A very friendly and helpful dental practice that I would highly recommend! Have had regular check-ups and remedial works carried out that I have been extremely happy with - and no pain at all! Also,…”

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“Anna has been my Hygienist since she started working at the Manor Dental Practice and has always achieved the highest…”

Mr Williams

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“What a wonderful team! They provide a comfortable environment, are personable and incredibly knowledgeable. Highly recommend!”

Kate S

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“I have recently moved to the area and needed emergency dental treatment. On the recommendation of my new neighbours, I…”

Judith M

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“Recently transferred across to this practice and have been super impressed with the team. I've had a check-up and hygienist…”

Ross C

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“Friendly, professional service. Full explanation of work was given, very gentle treatment and a great, friendly dental team. Highly recommended.”

Karen H

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“I would like to highly commend this practice. I have been to some pretty dreadful dentists over the years, and…”

Sharon H

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“In Bath on a visit and needed to attend an emergency appointment for my family member. We were treated with…”

Allison A

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“Cracked half of my filling and decided to register and get treatment with Manor Dental. X-rays and a scan of…”

Julie D

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“Had an emergency appointment for a broken front tooth. It was seen that morning, and the tooth was repaired. Faultless…”

Brett P

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“A very friendly and helpful dental practice that I would highly recommend! Have had regular check-ups and remedial works carried…”

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