Dental Radiography

Dental radiography, also known as radiography or a radiograph, is a diagnostic tool used in dentistry to get a picture of the teeth, gums, bones, and other parts of the mouth. The radiographs help dental professionals visualize the health of the teeth and surrounding oral tissues as well as look for hidden pathology or decay. Using x-ray technology, dentists can detect cavities, check for abscesses, examine the roots of teeth, as well as inspect and diagnose any other potential issues within the soft tissue and bone structure of the mouth. When a dental radiograph is taken, a thin piece of film or digital electronic imaging device is used that is inserted between the teeth that are being examined. Radiation is then directed onto the area to get a clear view of the dental anatomy. Depending on the type of radiograph, the technician may vary the angle of radiation to further inspect a specific area more carefully. When taking dental radiographs for educational or diagnostic purposes, dentists may use a few different types of radiographs. Intraoral radiographs are taken of the interior of the mouth and typically the most common type of radiograph taken for detection and diagnosis. Extraoral radiographs or panoramic radiographs, or OPGs, provide a wider view of the entire mouth including the teeth, jaws, sinuses, and other structures, and are taken from outside the mouth. This type of radiograph is especially useful in diagnosing cysts and tumors in the jaw as well as to get an overall view of teeth and development. After the dental radiographs are taken, the technician develops them and then sends them to the dentist, who interprets them and diagnoses the patient. As a diagnostic aid, radiographs allow dentists to see problems they cannot necessarily see by simply looking inside the patient's mouth.They are a key component in diagnosis and prevention of oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.