Every one of you who has been to the dentist has had dental X rays done. Whether as part of your routine visit or to help diagnose a problem. So, you might be asking what exactly are dental X rays and what does a dental x ray machine do? Why is it such a necessary diagnostic and preventative tool for the dental professional?
There are many different types of dental X-ray done using different x-ray machines. Each one of them has a different purpose. These are the most commonly used dental X-ray machines and the info that they provide your dentist. Keep reading to find out more on the topic.
Brief History of the X-Ray Machine
You have probably heard of ultraviolet or UV light waves from the sun, infrared heat emitted by our own bodies, and the visible light that you can see around. Similarly, x rays are another wavelength of light – that can allow dentists to “see through” the human tissues.
Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, a German physicist, discovered X-rays in 1895 accidentally. Rontgen was working with a cathode-ray tube in his lab. He suddenly noticed that the tube created a fluorescent glow when he applied a high voltage at the terminals. When he covered the tube with heavy paper, he surprisingly saw the light pierce through the paper.
Roentgen proved that the X-ray light could pass through many materials through further experiments. And it can also pass through human tissue. That sounds interesting.
One of the first X-rays ever taken was of his wife Bertha’s hand. Since then, both medical and dental X-rays have advanced considerably. They offer an effective, safe way to reveal details about previously hidden issues in your teeth and bones.
Why Do You Need X Ray Machine?
When you visit a new dentist, you will often get X-rays done along with your physical exam. Through the x ray report, your dentist can discover a lot about your teeth after examining your mouth.
X-rays are often necessary to highlight areas of special concern which might not be visible with the normal eye. Hence the x ray machine plays an important role in dentistry.
- Decay. Yes, an x ray will reveal decay to your dental team. Thus highlighting difficult-to-catch areas between the teeth. Additionally, X-rays can reveal pockets of decay which often develop underneath an existing filling.
- Bone loss. For those with gum disease, X rays can reveal the beginnings of bone loss.
- Infections and abscesses. X-rays can give a clear image of the damage and infections in the sensitive root canal area of your teeth. Additionally, they can highlight existing abscesses between your teeth and gums or eleven at your tooth’s root.
- Implants. If you are getting tooth dentures or implants, your dentist will take the help of the X-ray to plan your procedure.
In general, x ray machine in the clinic is helpful as your dentist can use them to address existing problems.
It will also assist your dentist in keeping an eye on issues that may develop. Thus helping to create a plan to get your teeth in optimal shape.
4 Types of Digital Dental X-ray Machines
As you are aware, digital images can be easily shared with others. Moreover, they use less radiation than film images, thus making the imaging process safer for both patients and doctors.
Digital images are a more eco-friendly option because they do not use the processing chemicals as in film images. You will also not require the darkroom as the space can be used as a more productive treatment area.
In today’s digital world, there are still a number of dental practices using film-based or analog dental imaging technology. But it is a good time to move to a digital x ray machine as digital imaging requires less patient contact. Therefore, the risk of infection from cross-contamination than film or phosphor plate systems is even less.
Here are a few of the different imaging technologies you may consider when purchasing a digital dental X ray machine.
1. Intraoral X Ray Sensors
Intraoral X-ray sensors are fast replacing film x-rays in many modern dental practices. They are easier and faster for capturing FMX series, bitewings, and other intraoral images. They also require less radiation than their film counterparts.
2. Digital Panoramic X-rays
Today’s digital dental X-ray machines for panoramic imaging often include additional features like TMJ projections and extraoral bitewings. These digital panoramic X-ray machines are designed such that they can hence the dentist’s practice efficiency and streamline diagnoses.
Some of the common digital panoramic models are even upgradeable to cone beam imaging.
3. Dental Cone Beam Systems
CBCT imaging or cone beam computed tomography is becoming the standard of care for many dental specialty practices. Your dentist can have a more complete view of the anatomy with 3D imaging. These images aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
4. Phosphor Plate X-ray Systems
These phosphor plate X-ray systems are widely used in many dental practices. Your dentist can re-use plates to capture images.
They can feed the plates into a machine. Then they can wipe the plate clean to be used on the next scan.
How Are X-Rays Performed?
Your dentist will take dental X-rays while sitting upright in a chair. The dental technician will place a lead apron over your chest and abdomen. They might also wrap a thyroid collar around your neck.
Next, the technician will place the X-ray sensor or film in your mouth for the picture. Most individuals do not have any problems or discomfort when taking X-rays. The location and size of the sensor placement are a big factor as it decides how comfortable or uncomfortable you will be.
Moreover, the size of your mouth is also a factor because if you have a small mouth, then placing the sensor is a little more challenging. Note that taking X-rays will never be painful. It is just uncomfortable or awkward at the most.
1. Bitewing X-Rays
Your dentist will take bitewings typically taken every year or when they think it is required. It helps detect dental caries between your teeth and also checks the bone level that houses your teeth.
2. Periapical X-Rays
It is also referred to as PA’s. This type of X-ray generally takes a full tooth picture from the very top of your tooth or the crown to the tip of the root. Your dentist will take periapical X-rays when you are having symptoms with a specific tooth.
They will also take this x ray as a follow-up to a procedure. With the help of this x ray your dentist can determine if there is an abscess, deep decay, or abnormalities in the surrounding bone structure.
3. Occlusal X-Rays
As it is a specialized x-rays your dentist will not perform it routinely as the others. But it can provide precious information. Your dentist will use the X-ray to show the roof or floor of your mouth. And to check for things like extra teeth, impacted teeth, abnormalities, issues with the jaw, and any solid growths, such as tumors.
4. Panoramic X-Rays
Your dentist will take a panoramic X-ray every 3-5 years. Your orthodontist might also take the X-ray. But they can also take an x-ray in preparation for braces. Your oral surgeon might also take an x-ray before extracting your wisdom teeth.
FAQs X Ray Machine
Are X-Rays Safe?
You may have heard some conflicting info about radiation safety like X-rays. However, you need not worry about the small amounts of radiation generally found in X-rays.
Firstly, your organs will be protected by a lead apron throughout the process. The apron covers your chest and abdomen. Secondly, X-rays emit very minimal radiation.
Can Children Get X-Rays?
For kids, X-rays can provide vital info about baby teeth, permanent teeth, and the bite and jaw structure. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists confirms minimal risk when X-ray is taken of kids. It is important to note that the amount of radiation is very less. Dentists are trained to be especially careful to minimize radiation exposure for children. If you have any other concerns, talk to your dentist.
How Often Should Your Teeth Be X-Rayed?
This often depends on your dental and medical history and current condition. Some people might need X-rays as often as every six months, with no recent dental or gum disease. If you visit your dentist regularly, you may get X-rays only every couple of years. Your dentist may take X-rays as part of the initial exam if you are a new patient. It will help establish a baseline record to compare changes that might occur over time.
Summary
Are you seriously considering a digital dental x ray machine for your clinic? If you are still using traditional film or phosphor plate X-ray systems, then you can consider the direct digital options.
You can search for a system that makes your existing imaging tasks more efficient. But at the same time allows you to add new options for diagnostics, patient education, and treatment planning. You should also calculate how often you will use the x ray machine to determine your true return on investment.
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