An important factor in any trip to the dentist is having dental x-rays taken. Properly termed radiographs, dental x-rays are the images taken of the teeth and roots, showing the bone structure and internal tooth structure to enable the fast, accurate diagnosis of everything from cavities and tooth decay to tooth impaction and other issues.
Having regular dental x-rays taken is as important as regular teeth cleaning.
Dental X-Rays
There are various forms of radiation, and x-rays are a form of ionizing radiation. Radiographs are images taken using a low level of photon-beam (or x-) radiation. They capture detailed images of the teeth and the interior of the gums. For most adult patients, they can be performed yearly, though certain patients may require them more (or less) often depending on their age, oral health history, current symptoms, and other factors including prior x-ray exposure.
Dental x-rays may be taken:
- For new patients
- To monitor the development and positioning of adult teeth in children
- Where tooth impaction is suspected (especially wisdom teeth)
- To plan and monitor the progress of orthodontic treatment
- To plan for dentures or implants
- To detect decay between teeth
- To identify issues with root canals, crowns, and fillings
- To diagnose infections and abscesses
- To assess trauma (including lost teeth and fractures)
- To identify bone loss in the jaw
- To diagnose cysts and tumours
- To assess the proximity f teeth to nerves before extractions/treatments
Types of Dental X-Rays
- Bitewing x-rays are in-chair intraoral x-rays (meaning the film or sensor is held inside the mouth and behind the teeth). The patient bites down on an implement to hold the film or sensor in place, and it enables the dentist to check for cavities between the teeth.
- Occlusal x-rays are also in-chair intraoral, and these are taken with the jaw closed to identify the relationship between the upper and lower teeth and whether there are anatomical abnormalities. This type is usually used in children.
- Periapical x-rays are in-chair images that focus on just two teeth, complete from crown to root.
- Panoramic (OPG) x-rays are extraoral x-rays taken in a separate room using a large x-ray machine that rotates around the patient’s head while they bite onto a stabilizer. It displays all of the teeth, roots, and jaw anatomy in a single image. It may also examine some of the other bones of the face. It provides much more detail about the patient’s dental and oral health.
- CT – this provides three-dimensional images through the face and jaws as needed, almost always referred out to a radiology clinic. These are used for diagnosing oral cancers, for more severe anatomical issues or abnormalities, and to plan dental implant treatments.
Dental X-rays and Radiation Risks
Radiation exposure carries inherent risks and in Australia, acceptable levels of radiation exposure are set by the EPA. Some patients may have concerns about this. While it’s true that dental x-rays do result in radiation exposure, the levels of this are extremely low. It’s important to understand that humans are exposed to low-level background radiation in the natural environment and that a single flight on a plane (for example) results in greater radiation exposure than a dental x-ray.
Everyone who performs an x-ray examination of any kind must be trained and licensed to do so as per the EPA – and this includes dentists and dental assistants. Using the lowest dose of radiation to affect the image is key and with modern technology, especially digital radiography, exposure levels are much, much lower than they were even a generation ago.
Additional radiation safety measures include the use of small exposure fields and the use of a lead bib or apron to cover the chest, abdomen, and pelvis, especially for children and women of childbearing age. In patients with thyroid issues, the neck may be protected as well.
Dental X-Ray Supplies
Adam Dental offers an extensive range of dental supplies throughout Australia, from Melbourne to Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, and all other areas.
We carry film and digital dental x-ray products and supplies from brands including MES, BA International, Carestream, KERR, Hanson UK, Indusbello, Soredex, and others.
These include:
- MES Runyes Wall Mounted Dental X-Ray Unit
- Panoramic X-Ray Viewer
- X-ray Film
- Film Holders
- Protective Lead X-Ray Aprons
- Bitewing Holders
- Film and Sensor Tabs
- Sensor Holders
- Phosphor Plates & Envelopes
- …and more
For the very best in quality, range, price, service, and delivery look no further than Adam Dental for your dental supplies in Australia today.