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At Parkcrest Dental Group, we believe in leading the way in technology and care. We strive to provide our patients with the most up-to-date treatment and examination options out of all dentists in Springfield, MO. As part of a thorough Parkcrest Dental Group checkup, you will need to take x-rays. X-rays help your dentist properly diagnose any oral issues. He or she can then recommend the necessary treatment that will allow you to maintain your healthy smile
Radiology simply refers to the science of reading and analyzing x-rays to better treat patients. Dental radiology at Parkcrest Dental Group gives your dentist in Springfield, MO, a better view of your teeth above and below your gums. This added knowledge helps your dentist analyze your overall oral health. He or she can then make more informed recommendations and suggestions. A well-informed dentist makes for a healthier patient.
Intraoral x-rays snap images of your teeth from inside your mouth. Your dentist will ask you to bite down on or hold a device with film in it. This film captures the image of your teeth from within your mouth.
Bitewings, periapical, and occlusal are common intraoral x-rays. Bitewing x-rays give your dentist a view of your molars, upper and lower, on both sides of your mouth. These x-rays also include the teeth in front of your molars, known as bicuspids. Periapical x-rays give your dentist a view of only a few teeth at once, but they reveal the full length of the tooth, even into your gum. Occlusal x-rays show development and placement of teeth. Pediatric dentists use occlusal x-rays much more frequently than general dentists.
Extraoral x-rays snap an image from the outside of your mouth. An extraoral x-ray takes a big-picture approach. These snapshots reveal your skull and jaw. Gum disease and poor oral health can cause decay in your jaw as well, and it is important for dentists to see the full picture sometimes.
A machine rotates around your head and takes pictures as it revolves. This allows CBCT x-rays to give three-dimensional views of your teeth and skull. This form of x-ray is commonly used during the dental implant process.
If a dentist needs to see all aspects of your mouth in a single image, he chooses to use a panoramic x-ray. Panoramic x-rays are a bit different because your dentist must position you in the right place. One part of the x-ray circles your back of the head while the film circles the front. This allows the panoramic view of your mouth and jaw. Some people read or hear about the panoramic x-ray and get nervous. But there is nothing to worry about. Most of the time, they actually emit less radiation than intraoral x-rays.
X-rays help Parkcrest Dental Group dentists assess your teeth and make informed recommendations. You shouldn’t let x-rays freak you out. Remember that they are part of the process of improving your oral health. If you have questions or concerns, contact Parkcrest Dental Group.
