Dental X-rays are a critical part of any oral care plan. They are commonly used – anyone who has ever visited a Rancho Cucamonga Dentist or dental hygienist has most likely had them taken at some point.
The Dental X-Ray Process
- These X-rays are generally performed in the office of a local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist. To begin, your dentist will cover you with a heavy iron apron to protect your body from the radiation.
- Next, your professional Rancho Cucamonga Dentist who is licensed to take dental x-rays will insert a small apparatus, made of plastic, into your mouth and ask you to bite down on it – this holds the X-ray film in place.
- Your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist will then proceed to take an X-ray picture of the targeted area. This process is pain-free and will be repeated until images have been obtained for your entire mouth.
Why Are These X-Rays Taken?
X-ray are generally taken for preventive dental care purposes. This procedure can assist in highlighting a variety of dental issues, including bone destruction, dental injuries and tooth decay.
Ultimately, an X-ray is also a helpful tool for planning a course of treatment for patients who are having restorative care, dental implants placed or other cosmetic care.
Common Types of X-Rays Performed
There are a variety of X-rays your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist can order. The type of X-ray needed will mainly depend on the type of care the patient needs to get treated for.
Here are some of the most common types of X-rays performed.
- Periapical: Provides a view of the entire tooth, from the crown to the bone that help to support the tooth.
- Bitewing: Offers a visual of both the lower and upper posterior teeth. This X-ray can also help in showing your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist how these teeth touch one another.
- Panoramic: Displays a view of the teeth, jaws, nasal area, sinuses and jaw joints and generally taken when a patient may need orthodontic treatment.
- Occlusal: Gives you a clear view of the floor of the mouth to assist in discovering any extra teeth or teeth that have not yet broken through the gum line.
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