X-rays
X-rays of the teeth are done to diagnose dental diseases and injury. They reveal the number, size, and position of the teeth. They can show cavities before they are visible even to the dentist. They also show bone damage, abscessed teeth, fractured jawbones, arthritis, gum disease and other conditions.

X-rays are a type of radiation that can form an image on film. On an X-ray, teeth will appear white, air will be black, and other structures, such as bone, will be shades of gray.

X-rays are done in a dentist's office. The most common procedure is called a "bite-wing," where a small piece of film is placed in your 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. There is no discomfort when a dental X-ray is done.

If you are concerned about exposure to radiation from X-rays, talk to your dentist. If you are pregnant or think you might be, tell your dentist. He can provide lead-based shields to protect your body and minimize your exposure to radiation. Dentists and their staff are trained in proper techniques to reduce radiation exposure.

Physical Examination
The dentist visually examines all of your teeth and checks your gums to make sure they're strong and healthy. Cavities are found by looking at the teeth and at the X-rays of the teeth. Gum disease is found the same way. Gum disease is evaluated by measuring the depth of gum pockets.

The dentist will also check your bite (the way your top and bottom teeth work together.) If there are problems with your bite, he may refer you to an orthodontist for braces.

If your dentist suspects that you have oral cancer, he will examine the mouth for any lesions of the lip, tongue, or other mouth area. Your dentist will notice any ulcers that bleed, speech difficulties, chewing or swallowing problems. Tests might include a biopsy - removing a small piece of tissue to examine under a microscope.

To learn more:

Braces
(American Dental Association)

Get answers to Frequently Asked Questions about braces and orthodontic problems.

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/braces

Dental X-rays
(National Library of Medicine)

MEDLINEplus provides illustrations withan explanation of dental X-rays and how they help you and your dentist.

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003801.htm

Why do I need X-rays?
(The Academy of General Dentistry)

This site answers all your questions about X-rays.

http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=x&iid=342&aid=1373

Lip and Oral Cavity Cancer
(National Cancer Institute)

Cancer.gov gives a complete and easily understood description of lip and oral cavity cancer, including an explanation of how it is identified and treated.

https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/patient/lip-mouth-treatment-pdq

next » Questions for your dentist about dental and oral disease.

Written by: Judi Berry, B.F.A.
Reviewed by: Michael J. Engel, D.M.D.
Last Modified: Tuesday February 14, 2017 10:58 AM