# Dental X-Rays: Why Your Dentist May Suggest One
If your dentist suggests an X-ray, it is natural to ask why it is needed and whether it is safe. A dental X-ray is a quick picture that shows what cannot be seen by simply looking in the mouth. Understanding its purpose can make the decision easier.
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# What can an X-ray show?
During an examination the dentist sees the visible parts of your teeth and gums. An X-ray shows the areas beneath and between them. It can help find:
- Decay between teeth or under old fillings
- Infection at the tip of a root
- Bone loss linked to gum disease
- Teeth that are stuck under the gum, such as wisdom teeth
- The position of developing adult teeth in children
- Problems with existing crowns, fillings or implants
# Common types
Bitewing: shows the crowns of the upper and lower back teeth together and is often used to look for decay between teeth.
Periapical: shows one or two whole teeth from crown to root.
Panoramic (OPG): shows the upper and lower jaws, all teeth and the jaw joints in a single image, and is often used for planning.
# Is it safe?
Dental X-rays use a very small amount of radiation. Dentists follow the principle of using the lowest dose that answers the clinical question, and they only advise an X-ray when the information is useful. A protective apron may be used, and the equipment is designed to limit the beam to the area being examined.
If you are pregnant, or think you might be, tell your dentist before any X-ray. Planned X-rays can often be postponed, and the dentist will advise based on your situation.
MedlinePlus explains how X-rays work and what to expect in general.
# How often are they needed?
There is no single schedule for everyone. The dentist decides based on your age, your history of decay or gum disease, your symptoms and previous images. Someone with few problems may need images less often than someone who has frequent decay.
# Questions you can ask
- Why do you recommend this X-ray?
- What will it show that an examination cannot?
- Is there a time I should avoid it, such as during pregnancy?
- Can I keep a copy of the image for my records?
# Local information
Readers searching for a Dentist on Porwal Road, Lohegaon, Pune can read about Dr. Mahesh Mali (BDS) of Nextcare Dental Clinic, whose website also lists a dental X-ray service.
This article is for general education only. Please follow the advice of your dentist.