Dental x-ray
A dental X-ray, also known as radiograph, is a diagnostic tool used in Dentistry to provide a detailed image of the teeth, bones, and surrounding tissues. It helps dentists identify problems like cavities, gum disease, and oral infections.
_Owens_in_a_radiology_room_in_the_base_dental_clinic_-_DPLA_-_9c158451f7e3c29834af028a6e739522.jpeg)
History[edit | edit source]
- The use of X-rays in dentistry began shortly after the discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895.
- Advancements in technology over the years have led to the development of digital dental X-rays, which produce faster results with lower radiation exposure.
Types[edit | edit source]
- Bitewing X-ray: Captures the crown portions of top and bottom teeth together, typically used to check for cavities between teeth.
- Periapical X-ray: Shows the entire tooth, from crown to root, to detect any abnormalities.
- Panoramic X-ray: Provides a broad view of the entire mouth, including upper and lower jaws.
- Occlusal X-ray: Larger and captures tooth placement and development in children.
- Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): 3D imaging used for surgical planning.
Benefits[edit | edit source]
- Early detection: Identifies problems early on, which can lead to timely treatment.
- Comprehensive view: Offers a complete view of the mouth which might not be visible to the naked eye.
- Treatment planning: Assists in planning treatments like Root Canals, Dental Implants, and orthodontic procedures.
Risks[edit | edit source]
- While dental X-rays produce low radiation, prolonged exposure can be harmful. However, protective measures like lead aprons can minimize risk.
- Not recommended for pregnant patients unless absolutely necessary.
Advancements[edit | edit source]
- Digital radiography: Faster and uses less radiation than traditional film X-rays.
- Portable X-ray machines: Allows for mobility in dental practices and outreach programs.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- "The Evolution of Dental Radiographs." Journal of Dental Research.
- "Safety in Dental X-ray Procedures." World Dental Association.
External Links[edit | edit source]
| Dental x-ray Resources | |
|---|---|
|
 |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
