Don’t know a periapical from a bitewing? Today’s Grapevine dental blog takes a look at dental x-rays.
Panoramic
If you have ever stood in a huge camera and struggled to stay motionless while an automated camera made one slow pass around your head, then you have had a panoramic x-ray taken of your mouth. These pictures help dentists see everything in one image: the complete upper and lower jaw. X-rays are often taken during a patient’s first visit to Mason Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. They are also very helpful for evaluating jaw injuries and seeing emerging teeth in children.
Bitewing
Bitewing x-rays help Dr. Mason see what’s going on between teeth–something that is always needed but impossible with a visual exam. They also help your dentist evaluate the jaw bone.
Periapical
These are similar to bite wings but they can get a clearer picture of the tooth roots and bone. These are ordinarily used to help diagnose an abscess in the root of a tooth.
Full-Mouth Series
This is a combination of periapical and bitewing x-rays that gives a comprehensive picture of all the teeth and surrounding bone structure.
If you are worried about the safety of dental x-rays, we invite you to talk to our excellent staff. We can explain all the precautions that we take to reduce radiation exposure and answer any questions you may have.
If you are pregnant and need a dental x-ray, it is important to let Dr. Mason know this before x-rays are taken. X-rays are not necessarily dangerous for pregnant women, but they are often postponed until after delivery as a precaution. If you are pregnant and have a dental issue, call our office right away. We can be reached at 817-481-4717.
We hope you have learned a little bit about dental x-rays, an indispensable tool. Check back often for more specifics about dentistry at Mason Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions. We look forward to hearing from you!
Contact Mason Cosmetic & Family Dentistry: 817-481-4717
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
801 W Wall St
Grapevine, Texas
76051