The Importance Of A Dental X Ray

Dental radiography is an important diagnostic tool in dentistry

. Even though many conditions can be observed by the dentist just by doing a clinical examination of the teeth and gums, it is possible for certain conditions to be missed as well. That is where the dental x ray comes in, allowing anomalies that are located beneath the surface tissue to be detected and diagnosed.

A radiographic image is produced by using a controlled but focused burst of radiation that is able to penetrate the different layers of tissue within the mouth before striking a sensor plate. This allows various oral structures to be visualized with a reasonable level of clarity. By viewing the image that is produced, the location of any pathological features can be determined. This is especially useful for pathologies that occur deep within tissue and do not manifest superficially.

The images obtained during radiography are based on the ability of radiation to penetrate different types of tissue. As a general rule, structures that appear whiter allow less radiation to pass true while darker structures allow radiation to penetrate more easily. As a result, teeth appear lighter in color. Pathologies such as dental caries and infections tend to cause decreases in bone densities. This causes bone in the area to allow more x rays to pass through, appearing darker on the screen.

When a photographic film has come into contact with radiation, it is then developed to produce an image. This is a complex process involving various chemicals. A dark room is used as films are light sensitive. The process is time consuming, with even a slight mistake possibly resulting in misdiagnosis. Therefore, the use of digital images on a screen has become more popular with the development of more sophisticated technology. This method however is more costly.

Radiographs can be taken at different angles to obtain different views of the teeth and gums. A periapical view is one that is taken with both anterior and posterior teeth. It is done to obtain a view of the tip of the root. A bitewing view is taken to get a view of the crowns of the posterior teeth.

A major concern when it comes to this procedure is the exposure to radiation. In general, this exposure is minimal. A patient is typically only exposed to the equivalent of a few days worth of background radiation. This is further reduced by the use of a lead apron to shield the vital organs.

Therefore, radiography is an essential feature of dentistry. It allows for the diagnosis of many underlying conditions. Though there might be concern about exposure to x rays, the diagnostic value is considerable.

by: Alexis Ford

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