A test involving X-rays of the teeth and mouth. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light) that are of higher energy, however, and can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as teeth) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures (including the bone and dentin) will be shades of gray.
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.
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.
The X-rays cause 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.
Dental X-rays are useful in the diagnosis of dental diseases and injury, normal number, structure and position of the teeth and jaw bone, cavities or other abnormalities.
Dental X-rays may reveal
• The number, size and position of teeth.
• Unemerged or impacted teeth.
• The presence and extent of dental caries.
• Bone damage (such as from periodontitis)
• Abscesed teeth.
• Fractured jaw.
• Broken or dislocated/bone or tooth.
• Gingivitis.
• Impacted tooth.
• Malocclusion of teeth.
• Other abnormalities of the teeth & jaw bones.
• Tooth decay.
An Unknown Factor
The diseases of the teeth and gum of the oral cavity is a major problem in India irrespective of age or race. It is difficult to evaluate the immediate prospects of the sources of current research activities. Discovery of the causes and the methods to cure “caries” of teeth and gum disease commonly known as “Pyorrhoea” would be a great achievement, although one cannot forsee when this would be achieved. So our basic knowledge of the disease of the teeth and gum is still incomplete.