X-rays are an important part of dental care. They are often used at the first visit when care is established to determine what's going on inside and beneath the teeth. A dental x-ray can often provide the first sign of a serious dental condition so that treatment can be quickly initiated and damage to the teeth prevented. A thyroid shield is usually used when films are taken to protect this important gland from the damage that it can do.
Potential Diagnoses
Many different conditions might be diagnosed through the use of x-rays.
-- Tooth decay, especially when it occurs beneath the gum line
-- Bone damage to the supporting structures
-- Injuries such as broken roots
-- Impacted teeth that are not growing incorrectly
-- Cysts, tumors, and abscesses
X-rays are also used on children to determine the location of the permanent teeth and make sure that everything is coming incorrectly. They can help to determine the course of treatment that will be used when the affected area is large or damage is significant. Following treatment, they can allow the dentist to confirm that everything was done correctly and nothing was missed.
They may also be used to plan for orthodontic treatment, both before the treatment starts, and during the course to make sure that the teeth are lining up the way they are supposed to.
X-ray Types
Several different types of dental x-rays are used, based on the problem being identified or treated.
-- Bitewing: Allows the dentist to see how the upper and lower teeth touch and line up. They can also help find decay hiding between the teeth.
-- Occlusal: These are used to identify any problems on the roof or the floor of the mouth. They find problems with the palates and conditions that affect the soft tissues, like cysts and abscesses.
-- Periapical: When a dentist needs to see the entire tooth, these x-rays are ordered. These are done at the initial appointment.
-- Panoramic: These show the doctor, not just the teeth and gums, but also the sinuses, nasal cavities, and jaw joints.
Thyroid Shield
The thyroid located in the neck. It regulates the metabolism and, if damaged, can lead to several conditions, such as weight, fertility and mental health problems. Radiation can damage the thyroid and, for this reason, the technologist administering the x-rays at the dentist's office will drape the patient's neck with a thyroid shield to protect this organ. Thyroid shields come in different sizes and colors, depending on the manufacturer. They are also available in different types of materials, from lead to lead-free.