Don’t know a periapical from a bitewing? Today’s dental blog from Waco dentist Steven T. Cutbirth takes a look at dental X-rays.
Panoramic
If you have ever stood in a huge camera apparatus and struggled to stay still while an automated camera made one slow pass around your head, then you have had a panoramic X-ray taken. These pictures help dentists see everything in one image: the total upper and lower jaw. These are often taken during a patient’s first visit to our office.
Bitewing
Bitewing X-rays help us see what’s going on between teeth—something that is always required but impossible with a visual exam. They also help us evaluate the jaw bone.
Periapical
These are similar to bite wings but they can get a more detailed picture of the tooth roots and bone. These are usually used to help diagnose an abscess in the root of a tooth.
Full-Mouth Series
This is a combination of periapical and bitewing X-rays. It gives a highly-detailed picture of all the teeth and surrounding bone structure.
If you are worried about the safety of dental X-rays, we invite you to talk to our staff. We can explain all the precautions that we take to reduce radiation exposure and answer any questions you may have.
If you are pregnant and need a dental X-ray, it is essential to let us know beforehand. X-rays are not necessarily dangerous for pregnant women, but they are often postponed until after delivery as a precaution.
We hope you have learned a little bit about dental X-rays, one of Waco dentist Steven Cutbirth’s indispensable tools. We offer general and cosmetic dentistry. Please make an appointment today.
Contact Steven T. Cutbirth DDS:
254-772-5420
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1613 Lake Success Dr
Waco, Texas
76710