A dental X-ray allows the dentist to see detailed images of your mouth. Various types of dental X-rays are available, including:
Bitewing. This type of X-ray allows the dentist to see the crowns of the upper and lower teeth. During a bitewing X-ray, you'll bite down on the X-ray film holder while the X-ray images are being taken.
Periapical. This type of X-ray allows the dentist to see the entire tooth and the surrounding bone.
Occlusal. This type of X-ray allows the dentist to see the way the upper teeth and corresponding lower teeth fit together when the jaw is closed.
Panoramic. This type of X-ray gives the dentist a broad view of the entire mouth.
Cone beam computerized tomography. This type of X-ray provides a 3-D view so that the dentist can better gauge the spacing of teeth and adjacent structures.
