Dental Xray

See what an examination alone cannot show

Dental radiographs create images of teeth, roots and surrounding bone. They can help your dentist detect decay between teeth, assess bone levels, investigate pain or trauma, evaluate root problems, monitor development and plan treatments such as extractions, root canal care, orthodontics or implants.

Imaging is selected for a reason

X-rays are not automatically required at every visit. Your dentist considers your symptoms, examination findings, dental and medical history, age, risk of disease and any previous images before deciding whether new radiographs will affect your care.

Common dental X-rays

• Small intraoral views focus on individual teeth and their supporting bone.
• Bitewing views help assess areas between back teeth and bone levels.
• A panoramic image, often called an OPG, gives a broad overview of the jaws, teeth and developing or impacted teeth.

Radiation safety

Dental imaging uses ionising radiation, so the benefits and risks are considered for each patient. When an image is clinically necessary, techniques are selected to obtain the diagnostic information with exposure kept as low as reasonably achievable. Tell the dental team if you are or may be pregnant and share any recent relevant images if available.

Frequently asked questions

Are dental X-rays safe?

They involve a small radiation exposure. Your dentist recommends them only when the expected diagnostic benefit justifies that exposure.

Why can’t the dentist just look at the tooth?

Some areas, including between teeth, under restorations, around roots and within bone, cannot be fully assessed by sight alone.

Will I need an X-ray every year?

Not necessarily. Timing is based on your individual risk, symptoms and treatment needs rather than a fixed schedule for everyone.

Please note: The type and number of images are chosen after clinical assessment.