Don’t know a periapical from a bitewing? Today’s dental blog takes a look at dental
x-rays.
Panoramic
If you have ever stood in a huge camera apparatus 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. These are often taken during a patient’s first visit to Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. They are also very helpful for evaluating jaw injuries, calcification in the carotid artery, tumors and seeing emerging teeth in children.
Bitewing
Bitewing x-rays help Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull see what’s going on between teeth and evaluate the bone levels supporting the teeth – something that is always needed but impossible with a visual exam.
Periapical
These are similar to bitewing x-rays but they can get a clearer picture of the tooth roots and bone. These are often 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 pregnant and need a dental x-ray at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, it is essential to let Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull 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 but have a dental issue, call our office right away. We can be reached at 616-784-2377.
We hope you have learned a little bit about dental x-rays, one of Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull’s indispensable tools in providing unsurpassed dental care in Comstock Park. Check back often for more specifics about dentistry at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry.
