Are you aware of dental X-rays? Let's talk about this in simple terms!

Have you ever had a dental X-ray? You may be a little curious about this, or even a little scared. But it's actually very important. Dentists can see many things in these X-ray images that we can't see when we open our mouths. So today, let's talk about these dental X-rays in simple, Sinhala language that you can understand.

What are dental X-rays?

Simply put, dental X-rays are pictures of what's inside your teeth and jaw. They're also called radiographs. They're used to check things inside that your dentist can't see during a regular exam, such as your jawbone, the roots of your teeth, some nerves, and sinuses.

How do these X-rays work?

Just like X-rays are taken of other parts of your body, dental X-rays use a type of electromagnetic radiation to take pictures of the inside of your mouth. This beam of radiation passes through your soft tissues and creates a clear picture of your teeth and bones.

There are two types of dental X-rays. One is the old-fashioned way, which is done on film. The other is the new digital way, which is done using digital sensors and a computer. The best part is that these digital X-ray machines emit 80% to 90% less radiation than the old-fashioned machines. That's really good news, isn't it?

What can be found in dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays are like a detective's tool for the dentist. They can help identify many problems inside the mouth early. Here's what they can find:

• Cavities: These are small cavities that are hidden between the teeth, and are not visible to the naked eye. Just think, sometimes we can't see them, but there may be a small gap between two teeth. That's what X-rays show clearly.
• Decay under fillings: Sometimes, even if a tooth has a filling, it can start to decay again under the filling. This can also be taken care of.
• Jawbone erosion: If the jawbone is eroding due to things like gum disease, that can also be seen on an X-ray.
• Infections: You can check for an infection at the root of a tooth, or an infection between the gum and the tooth (abscessed teeth).
• Impacted teeth: Some teeth, especially the wisdom teeth that come in at the end, may not erupt properly and may become impacted in the jawbone. An X-ray can help to see exactly where they are.
• Cysts and some types of cancer: There are times when some types of cysts and even cancerous conditions that develop inside the mouth can be detected with an X-ray.

In addition, dentists use X-rays to determine if you are eligible for dental implants, braces, or dentures. X-rays can also help monitor the healing process after dental procedures such as dental bone grafts and root canal therapy.

How are dental X-rays taken?

This is a very simple process. You have no reason to be afraid.

Before taking the X-ray, a technician will place a lead apron over your chest. Sometimes a thyroid collar will be placed around your neck. These are used to protect you from unnecessary radiation.

Then, you will be placed in a chair or placed in front of the X-ray machine to take the X-ray. The technician will place the film or sensor inside your mouth, press a button, and take the X-ray image. It is very important to remain as still as possible during this time. This will help you get a clear picture.

What types of dental X-rays are there?

There are two main types of dental X-rays:

• Intraoral X-rays: In this case, the film or sensor is inside your mouth.
• Extraoral X-rays: In this case, the film or sensor is outside your mouth.

Intraoral X-rays

This type of X-ray is further divided into several types:

• Bitewing X-rays: These look at the top and bottom teeth on one side of your mouth together. They are very helpful in finding gaps between teeth or changes just below the gum line. However, these X-rays usually do not show the entire root of the tooth.
• Periapical X-rays: These X-rays look at your entire tooth, from the crown to the tip of the root. They are useful for detecting cavities, gum disease, bone loss, and other abnormalities in the tooth or surrounding bone.
• Occlusal X-rays: These help your dentist find problems in the top, bottom, and roof of your mouth. These images are useful for identifying cracked or chipped teeth, and examining the roots of front teeth. They can also help detect cysts, abscesses, and jaw fractures. Pediatric dentists sometimes use these X-rays to check children's teeth as they grow.

Extraoral X-rays

There are several types of X-rays:

• Panoramic X-rays: These allow you to see your entire mouth, including your upper and lower teeth, jaw joints, nerves, sinuses, and supporting bones, in a single image. This helps your dentist get a rough idea of ​​any existing oral health problems.
• Cephalometric X-rays: These show your entire head from the side. This allows the dentist to see how your teeth are positioned in relation to your jaw. Orthodontists, who correct the shape and position of your teeth, often use these X-rays to plan treatment.
• Cone beam CT scan: This allows dentists to take three-dimensional (3D) images of your teeth, jaw, joints, nerves, and sinuses. These X-rays can detect tumors or even facial fractures. Surgeons use these CT scans to check the height, width, and position of the jawbone before performing dental implant placement.

Are dental X-rays really safe?

Many people are afraid of the radiation from these X-rays. But the actual radiation risk from a dental X-ray is very small. You might not realize that the amount of radiation you get from a full set of dental X-rays is about the same as the amount of radiation you absorb every day from things like:

• From TVs, smartphones and computers.
• From building materials like ceramic tiles and granite countertops.
• From natural radiation coming from the sun, stars, and the earth itself.

However, dental X-rays can be harmful if taken in very large doses , and can even increase the risk of cancer. That's why it's not a good idea to get X-rays more often than necessary. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of this to you.

How often should I get X-rays?

For most people with healthy teeth and gums, it's enough to get dental X-rays every 6 to 18 months . However, if you have oral health problems that need to be treated quickly, such as gum disease or frequent tooth decay, you may need to get X-rays more often.

Can I refuse dental X-rays?

As an individual, you have the right to refuse dental X-rays. But it's important to understand this: Many dentists will not provide certain services without X-rays because it would prevent them from fully understanding your condition.

If you are concerned about radiation exposure, talk to your dentist. He or she can help you decide on the pros and cons of having X-rays.

Can dental X-rays detect cancer?

Some types of oral cancer – especially those that have started in or spread to the jawbone – can be shown on dental X-rays. However, not all types of oral cancer can be detected on X-rays. That's why routine oral cancer screenings are so important.

Is it okay to get dental X-rays during pregnancy?

Generally speaking, it is safe to get dental X-rays while you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Both the American Dental Association and the American Pregnancy Association have stated that dental X-rays pose little risk to the fetus. However, many dentists avoid taking X-rays during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.

Dental X-rays are essential for maintaining good oral health. People with healthy teeth and gums usually need new X-rays about once a year. However, if you have frequent tooth decay or gum disease, you may need X-rays more often. Ask your dentist how often you should get X-rays to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Brief points to remember

So, you know a lot about dental X-rays now, right?

• Dental X-rays are an important test that helps detect problems with the teeth and jaw that are not visible to the naked eye .
• Radiation exposure is very low due to new digital X-ray technology.
• This can help detect many things early, such as tooth decay, infections, and impacted teeth.
• It's best to get X-rays as often as your dentist recommends .
• Even during pregnancy , if necessary, it is safe to have X-rays.

Taking care of your oral health is very important, so don't hesitate to keep seeing your dentist and get X-rays if necessary!

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