A lot of dental problems simply aren't visible to the naked eye. Decay between teeth, infection at the root of a tooth, or bone loss beneath the gumline can all be present without any obvious signs — an X-ray lets your dentist catch these issues early, often before they cause pain.
Bitewing X-rays capture the crowns of upper and lower teeth to check for decay between them. Periapical X-rays show the entire tooth, from crown to root, useful for spotting infections or bone changes. Panoramic X-rays capture the whole mouth in a single image, helpful for planning treatments like implants, wisdom teeth removal or braces.
Modern dental X-ray equipment uses very low radiation doses, and digital X-rays (which most clinics, including ours, now use) reduce this even further compared to older film-based methods. For context, the radiation from a routine dental X-ray is a small fraction of what you're exposed to during a long flight.
This depends on your oral health history and risk factors. Patients with a history of cavities or gum disease may need X-rays more frequently, while those with good oral health might only need them every couple of years. Your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your specific case.
Beyond spotting cavities, X-rays are essential for planning procedures like root canals, implants and orthodontic treatment — giving us a clear picture of bone structure, root position and alignment before we ever begin treatment.
Due for a check-up? Book an appointment and we'll assess whether an X-ray is needed as part of your visit.
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