Sign in  |  Register

Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Ency. home > Test > D > Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays    See images

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

X-ray - teeth

Definition:

A test involving X-rays of the teeth and mouth. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light); they 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.

How the Test is Performed

The test is performed in the dentist's office. 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.

How to Prepare for the Test

Adults:
There is no special preparation.

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 experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

Notify the dentist if you are pregnant.

How the Test will Feel

The X-ray itself causes 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.

Why the Test is Performed

Dental X-rays are useful in the diagnosis of dental diseases and injury.

Ency. home > Test > D > Dental X-rays

[an error occurred while processing this directive]