What is an X-ray / Radiograph?
An X-ray, also known as a radiograph, is a diagnostic imaging method widely used in dentistry to capture detailed images of teeth, jawbones, and the surrounding oral structures. Dental X-rays play a crucial role in identifying problems that may not be visible through a basic visual examination, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss beneath the gums, or impacted teeth that have yet to erupt.
X-rays work by passing a small, controlled amount of radiation through the mouth, allowing the dentist to produce images of areas hidden from view. These images are then used to diagnose a variety of dental issues and to support the development of a personalised treatment plan with greater accuracy and confidence.
Why are X-rays important in dental care?
Dental radiographs are essential tools for evaluating and monitoring oral health. Since many dental problems begin inside a tooth, below the gum line, or within the jawbone, X-rays help identify issues early on—before they become more serious or painful.
Common reasons for taking dental X-rays include:
- Detecting cavities: Decay that forms in between teeth or under old fillings cannot always be seen during a standard examination. X-rays help identify these problem areas early.
- Assessing bone health: X-rays are used to monitor bone density and detect bone loss caused by gum disease—critical information, especially for patients considering dental implants.
- Examining roots and nerves: If a tooth is causing pain, a radiograph can reveal abscesses, infections, or nerve damage at the root level.
- Monitoring development in children: They help track tooth emergence and jaw growth, and are essential tools in predicting orthodontic needs.
- Evaluating trauma: After an accident or injury, an X-ray can show if a tooth or surrounding bone has been damaged.
Without X-rays, these issues could go unnoticed until symptoms become severe, making treatment more complex, time-consuming, or costly.
Types of dental X-rays
Dental X-rays come in several forms, each designed for a specific diagnostic purpose. The choice of X-ray depends on what your dentist needs to examine.
- Bitewing X-rays: These show the crowns of both upper and lower teeth in one region. They are often used to detect decay between teeth and assess bone density.
- Periapical X-rays: These capture the entire tooth, from crown to root, along with surrounding bone. They’re typically used for diagnosing issues like abscesses or root infections.
- Panoramic X-rays: Offering a wide view of the entire mouth in one image, panoramic radiographs can reveal impacted wisdom teeth, jaw joint disorders, and sinus issues.
- Occlusal X-rays: These focus on the floor or roof of the mouth to detect extra teeth, jaw abnormalities, or oral pathologies.
Each type of X-ray provides different information, which helps the dental team form a complete picture of your oral health.
Safety and radiation concerns
A common concern with X-rays is radiation exposure. However, modern dental radiography, especially digital systems, uses extremely low amounts of radiation—far less than most people are exposed to in daily life from natural and environmental sources.
Several measures are in place to ensure safety during the imaging process:
- X-rays are only taken when absolutely needed.
- Use of lead aprons and thyroid collars protects the body’s most sensitive parts.
- Digital imaging reduces radiation exposure even further compared to traditional film-based methods.
At ValbyTand, our clinic uses advanced digital radiographic equipment that ensures minimal radiation while offering high-resolution images that improve diagnostic accuracy and patient safety.
When and how often are X-rays needed?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your individual needs. Some patients benefit from radiographs every six to twelve months, while others may only require them every few years. Factors influencing this schedule include:
- Your age
- Your dental and medical history
- Symptoms or concerns raised during an oral examination
- Risk factors such as history of decay or gum disease
For new patients, a set of baseline X-rays is commonly taken to assess the overall state of oral health. Children, due to their developing teeth and jaws, may need X-rays more often. At ValbyTand, we assess your specific situation during your visit and tailor the imaging schedule accordingly—always keeping long-term oral health and patient safety in focus.
The role of advanced imaging at ValbyTand
One of the things that truly sets ValbyTand apart is our integration of advanced imaging into everyday care. As the first dental clinic in Denmark to offer complimentary 3D scans during every new patient consultation, we provide our patients with an extraordinarily detailed view of their oral structures.
These 3D scans work in tandem with standard X-rays, allowing for a complete overview of your dental health and offering an accurate digital record stored securely in our digital dental bank. This means more precise diagnoses, improved planning for future treatments, and an unparalleled ability to monitor changes in your dental condition over time.
Our use of cutting-edge technology, combined with decades of experience, enables us to offer solutions that are both evidence-based and highly personalised.
Dentistry with experience, technology, and care
Since 1945, ValbyTand has been delivering high-quality dental care to the Valby community. Our commitment to combining traditional expertise with the latest innovations ensures that every treatment is carried out with skill, care, and precision.
With over 75 years of experience, and as pioneers in using digital technology in dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing safe and efficient diagnostic tools like X-rays and 3D scans. You can feel confident that our imaging practices are designed to protect your health while giving us the insight needed to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
