Depending on the kind of X-ray obtained, dentists can identify various dental issues with patients. Intraoral and extraoral X-rays are the two primary categories of dental X-rays. Within each of these categories, additional sub-categories provide varying perspectives of the oral cavity.
Below, a dental clinic in Kettering discusses the different types of X-rays and the problems they can reveal.
Intraoral X-Rays
The X-ray film is placed into the mouth at a dental clinic in Kettering during an intraoral X-ray. A few examples of intraoral X-rays are:
- Bitewing X-rays photograph the upper and lower teeth in one region of the mouth from the crown to the jawbone. This kind of X-ray exposes gum disease, tooth decay, and cracked fillings.
- Periapical X-rays produce images of two whole teeth, from root to crown. Any abnormal changes in the root and jawbone can be seen on these X-rays.
- Occlusal X-rays create an image of an entire upper row or lower jaw’s worth of teeth. They can identify issues with how the arches grow as well as anomalies with the palate or the floor of the mouth.
Extraoral X-Rays
Orthodontists utilize extraoral X-rays most frequently because, while they display teeth, they primarily display the skull and jaw.
- Panoramic X-rays show all the teeth in the upper and lower jaws. These X-rays can reveal malignancies, impacted teeth, and developing teeth.
- Tomograms only display one layer of the mouth and omit the rest. These are used to inspect areas of the mouth that are hard to view due to obstructions. These X-rays can aid in diagnosing jaw cancers and temporomandibular joint disorders.
Services we provide. At Dr. Michael H. Halasz, DDS we strive to provide our patients.
