Also, for patients who have chosen to replace missing teeth, Dr. What this means to a patient is an accurate diagnosis of an area of concern that would not have been possible without this technology. Compared to a traditional 2-dimensional x-ray that shows a flat image, the 3-D picture shows every dimension and aspect of the teeth and surrounding bone. Last, if you suffer from sleep apnea, dentists can often help, but yours may suggests a cephalometric projection first to clearly see your throat structure and determine the cause of your sleep apnea.ĬBCT, “cat-scan” or “cone beam” x-rays are an imaging method that uses computerized technology to convert 2 dimensional images into a 3 dimensional (3D) picture. Your dentist may also suggest this type of X-ray to diagnose any throat complications such as lumps or cancer. This is commonly used by orthodontists, so they can see how the teeth and jawbones fit to better create a treatment plan that involves the entire mouth. Dentists also commonly use it to diagnose major complications such as jaw tumors, cysts, and sinusitis.Ī cephalometric projection is an X-ray of one side of the entire head. If you suffer from frequent complications or have had major dental work in the past, your dentist may recommend a panoramic X-ray every now and then to make sure nothing is brewing.Ī panoramic X-ray may be used as a common X-ray method and is often used in preparation for major dental procedures such as getting braces. The result is a 2-D image of your 3-D mouth. Hard-to-find cysts, abscesses or growths can also be spotted with an occlusal X-ray.Ī panoramic X-ray uses a special machine that takes one image of your entire upper and lower teeth. This type of X-ray may also be used to diagnose a cleft palate or fracture. This may be used to find out why teeth haven’t erupted yet or to spot supernumerary (extra) teeth, which can damage healthy permanent teeth. Occlusal X-rays are designed to capture what goes on inside the roof or floor of the mouth, which helps the dentist see full tooth development and placement. These types of X-rays may be used if your dentist suspects damage to the tip of the tooth root or issues with the jawbone. The X-ray typically captures the entire upper or lower row of teeth in one image. This type of X-ray captures an image of the entire tooth, including a little past the tooth root. This makes the process a little faster because they don’t have to develop the film.īitewings show most of the tooth, but if your dentist needs a good look at the very entirety of your tooth or the jawbone, a periapical X-Ray is a better choice. Instead, they use a sensor, which sends the X-ray to the computer for review by the dentist. Many modern dental offices don’t use film anymore. These types of X-rays can be taken right in the dental chair.īitewing X-rays are also commonly used to locate the source of tooth discomfort. The term bitewing comes from how patients must bite down on the X-ray film. If you want to be better prepared for your next X-ray, you should understand the different types of X-rays and when or if you may need them.īitewing X-rays are incredibly common and are often taken for preventative purposes because they are a great way to see any decay between teeth or below the gumline. Of course, there are many different types of X-rays your dentist can provide. However, X-rays are also commonly used to catch problems before they arise and to diagnose existing problems. Regular cleanings and exams are part of caring for your oral health.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |