X-Rays

What are they?

X-rays show what is happening inside and around the tooth and its roots. They will show any decay or gum disease, bone loss and, in children, how the jaw is growing too.

Dentists use two types of x-ray. You grip a “bitewing” x-ray between your teeth and it shows the area in between your teeth and it shows the areas in between the teeth but not the roots. A “periapical” x-ray is placed next to the tooth and shows the whole of the tooth and its root.

There are also large x-rays which show all of the jaw and teeth. These are called panoramic x-rays and the x-ray machine moves around your head while you stand still.

What happens?

Trained members of the dentist’s staff can take x-rays, as well as the dentist. Training makes sure the x-rays are taken safely, as well as being clear read. There is a small risk of radiation in x-rays that are taken for health reasons but dental x-ray radiation is very low.

If you are concerned about safety, it may be helpful to know that:

• Your dentist will only take x-rays if they are needed;
• X-ray machines are checked regularly to make sure that they are only using the intended radiation dose; and
• You can still have dental x-rays when you are pregnant. (Your dentist may still ask you whether you are pregnant or whether you might be, and whether you would rather not have an x-ray).

When the x-ray is taken:

• You will need to keep very still for a few seconds to give a clear picture;
• The film is usually developed while you wait and labelled; and
• Sometimes it is useful for the dentist to compare a new x-ray with one taken some time ago. Your dentist will keep old x-rays on file.

What are the benefits?

• All forms of dental treatment rely on dental x-rays. Simply looking in your mouth cannot give the dentist as much information.
• X-rays allow your dentist to review old treatment as well as identify new problems.

Dental Examination

What is it?

The dental examination shows how healthy you mouth is. After the examination, you and your dentist can discuss the results and plan the best way to deal with any problems.

What will my dentist do?

As well as looking in your mouth, the dentist will ask you some questions. These may include the following.

• Why you’ve come for an examination.
• Any problems you’ve noticed (such as pain or sensitivity).
• Your general health and any medicines you might be taking (because these can effect your dental care).
• Your diet (because sugary snacks and drinks can cause tooth decay).
• How you clean your teeth (because correct cleaning helps prevent decay and gum disease).
• Smoking and drinking (because both can harm your mouth).

The questions will depend on what the dentist sees in your mouth. You should expect your dentist to:

• Look at your face and neck to see that they are healthy;
• Feel under the jaw;
• Look inside your mouth, at your tongue, your cheeks and lips, the roof of your mouth and the back of your throat (places where there might be a problem that you can’t see or feel).
• Look at your teeth and gums to see whether there are signs of decay, damage or gum disease (for children, your dentist will also look at tooth and jaw development in case orthodontic treatment might be needed now or later);
• Compare your mouth now with how it was when they last saw you;
• Decide whether they need more information from x-rays, or form plaster models showing how your teeth bite together; and
• Tell you about any treatment you need, explaining the choices and whether there will be any cost.

The examination may take longer if you are seeing a new dentist for the first time.

What are the benefits?

• Regular examinations mean that your dentist can spot problems and correct them early before treatment becomes complicated.
• A thorough examination helps you and your dentist look after your mouth and prevent future problems. The dentist will explain the options and then you can decide together what will be best for you.

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