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Dental X-rays How the Test is Performed:
The test is performed in the dentist's office. The most common procedure is a "bite-wing", where a small piece of film is placed in the mouth behind a section of the teeth. You are asked to bite down on the paper tab around the film, which holds the film in place. The X-ray machine is aimed at that section of teeth, and a picture is taken. Most dental X-rays include 4 or more views of the teeth.
How to Prepare:
Adults:
There is no special preparation.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age: Notify the dentist if you are pregnant .
How it Feels:
The X-ray itself causes no discomfort. Some people find that biting on the piece of film makes them gag; slow, deep breathing through the nose usually relieves this feeling.
Risks:
There is very low radiation exposure. However, no one should receive more radiation than necessary. A lead apron can be used to cover the body to reduce radiation exposure, especially for women who are or may be pregnant .
Why this Test is Performed:
Dental X-rays are useful in the diagnosis of dental diseases and injury.
Normal Values:
Normal number, structure, and position of the teeth and jaw bones. No cavities or other abnormalities.
Abnormal Results:
Dental X-rays may reveal:
Cost:
Costs vary from $8 for a single film up to $60 for a full survey and/or panorex (panoramic view).
Special Considerations:
Dental X-rays can reveal tooth decay (cavities) before they are visible even to the dentist.
A cross section illustration of the tooth. The gums are shown in pink and the bone is yellow.
Both baby and permanent teeth have fairly well defined times of eruption. The ages listed are the normal ages that a tooth emerges.
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