Digital Dental X-Rays – Schaumburg, IL

Checking for Hidden Problems in Your Mouth

Dentist and dental patient looking at digital dental x rays of teeth

Dental X-rays — also called radiographs — are a widely-used preventive and diagnostic tool that your dentist uses to locate damage and disease that isn’t visible to the naked eye. X-ray procedures are typically performed yearly during your annual teeth cleaning appointments. Receiving regular digital dental X-rays at our Schaumburg, IL dental office helps your dentist monitor and track the state of your oral health.

Types of Dental X-Rays

There are several types of dental X-rays, each capturing a slightly different view or angle of the affected area. The two most common forms of dental X-rays include intraoral (meaning the X-ray is filmed inside the mouth) and extraoral (meaning the X-ray is filmed outside the mouth). The most common form of digital radiography in dentistry is intraoral X-rays. Some examples of this technology include:

  • Bitewing: This type of X-ray offers a visual of both the lower and upper teeth. It is used to help your dentist locate decay between teeth.
  • Occlusal: These X-rays create a clear view of the floor of the mouth, which shows your dentist the bite of the upper and lower jaw.
  • Periapical: This detailed X-ray provides a view of the entire tooth, from the crown to the bone that supports it.
  • Panoramic: Showing an image of the teeth, jaws, nasal area, sinuses, and joints, this type of X-ray is one of the most advanced imaging options available.

These X-rays are typically performed in the dental office of a dentist or dental specialist. Special precautions are taken—such as wearing a lead vest to protect against low levels of radiation—and your entire procedure is monitored by a dental professional.