Dental X-Rays – Everything You Need to Know About This Diagnostic Method
Dental X-ray imaging is a diagnostic tool that has become increasingly popular over the past decade. If ten years ago you could find at most one dental clinic in Chișinău offering this service, today almost every reputable dental office includes dental X-rays in their services.
Dental X-rays provide a complete and detailed view of the teeth, upper and lower jaw. This type of investigation also reveals structures that cannot be effectively seen during a standard examination (such as tooth roots, jaw bone, or supporting bone of the mandible), as well as complex dental conditions (deep gum infections, periodontitis, cysts, root and canal anomalies, or abnormal tooth positioning).
When Do You Need a Dental X-ray and What Does It Mean?
Dental X-rays are required only under specific circumstances and are not necessary during every dental visit. In many cases, radiographic images help establish an accurate diagnosis. Here are some examples of when a dental X-ray may be needed:
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Tooth pain when exposed to cold or certain positions (risk of purulent infection in the pulp chamber)
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Cavities in unusual locations – between teeth or under fillings
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Cracks in teeth, questionable spots on a filling
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Suspected granulomas or cysts
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Tooth fractures or trauma to the upper/lower jaw
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Advanced periodontitis
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Preparation for and placement of implants, orthodontic devices, prosthetics, or dental crowns
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History of sinus infections potentially affecting teeth
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Tooth pain after root canal treatment (lasting over 2 weeks) or after a basic filling
Types of Dental X-Rays
There are several types of dental radiography:
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Periapical (retro-alveolar) X-ray
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Bite-wing X-ray
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Occlusal X-ray
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Sinus X-ray
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Panoramic X-ray
Periapical or Retro-Alveolar X-ray
This is a small and usually the cheapest type of dental X-ray that shows 2–3 teeth. It’s used in limited cases — when only one or two teeth are affected — to evaluate the effects of previous dental interventions (such as root canals) or to plan minor surgical procedures.
Bite-Wing X-ray
This image shows the roots of both upper and lower teeth. It’s useful for detecting interproximal cavities (between teeth), secondary cavities (around fillings), analyzing periodontitis, or checking bone resorption levels when teeth are missing but not yet replaced.
Panoramic Dental X-ray
Provides a full overview of all teeth and surrounding structures. Though not always necessary, it gives comprehensive insight when needed.
Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
A 3D high-performance imaging method offering detailed visualization of normal and pathological structures through digital processing. 3D imaging helps detect hidden issues in the jawbones or sinuses and is especially valuable before implant surgery to assess bone density, structure, and space. This information helps determine implant size and placement.
When Are Dental X-rays Needed for Children?
There are still some myths surrounding the safety of dental X-rays for children, but they are completely unfounded.
A competent and experienced dentist will only recommend X-rays when absolutely necessary and as a complement to clinical examinations. In cases of dental anomalies, trauma, deep infections, or surgical planning, X-rays can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce overall costs (fewer sessions, lower expenses).
The radiation dose in modern dental X-rays is extremely low — natural environmental exposure often exceeds it. A Harvard study even shows that a panoramic dental X-ray emits less radiation than what a child naturally receives from the environment in a single day.
Safe, Quick, and Effective
Dental X-rays remain a fast, relatively inexpensive, and highly effective diagnostic method. Thanks to advanced technologies and professional dental expertise, they are as safe as any other modern examination. Today’s digital radiology can reduce radiation exposure by up to 80% compared to traditional machines.
Because of their minimal exposure time and low risk, modern dental X-rays are even considered safe for pregnant women. If a small diagnostic test can increase the success rate and reduce treatment costs, there is no reason to avoid it.
Don’t miss the chance to prevent complications — especially when a free consultation can save you from discomfort in the future.