2023-11-07 20:45:00
You are getting ready to go to the dentist for a routine check-up or to resolve a specific dental problem ? It is very likely that your practitioner will recommend a dental x-ray. This medical imaging examination is often essential for detect oral problems, take care of them et evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments implemented. We take stock of its different indications, its advantages and its instructions for use with Dr. Nathalie Delphin, private dental surgeon and president of the Union of Women Dental Surgeons (SFCD).
Definition: what is a dental x-ray?
A dental x-ray indicates an x-ray image of the teeth, jaw bones, and surrounding tissues obtained using a specific x-ray machine that emits x-rays. These rays pass through the soft tissues, but are absorbed to varying degrees by the teeth and bones, creating a black and white image detailed internal structures of the oral cavity. They are carried out by dentists, and not by dental assistants, specifies the specialist. And to summarize:
Dental x-rays are a valuable aid to diagnosis, allowing you to observe elements that could not have been detected with the naked eye. Dr. Nathalie Delphin, dental surgeon
Panoramic, retro-alveolar, cone beam x-rays… The different types of dental x-rays
As the dental surgeon explains, there is three main types of dental x-rayseach having its own specificities:
- Panoramic x-rays, which provide a comprehensive view of the entire jaw in two dimensions, including the teeth, sinuses and jaw joints. In particular, they make it possible to assess the growth of wisdom teeth, detect jaw fractures, or other problems that affect the entire mouth.
- Retro-alveolar radiographs, which allow one to three teeth to be observed at a time. They are particularly useful for assessing the position of the teeth, the condition of the roots, the presence of dental cysts or abscesses, etc.
- Les Cone Beam ou CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography), which make it possible to obtain detailed 3D images of the mouth and notably helps in the planning of dental implants.
Indications: caries, abscesses, wisdom teeth… Why take a dental x-ray?
As you will have understood, dental x-rays are valuable for many reasons. They allow experts to make a more accurate diagnosis of the condition of your mouth and help identify certain dental problems invisible to the naked eye. We can thus:
- detect cavities in their early stagesbefore they become visible to the naked eye;
- detect dental infections, possible fractures or dental abscesses, to be able to direct care;
- locate wisdom teeth to determine whether their extraction is necessary;
- assess jaw problems to diagnose possible temporomandibular joint problems (TMJ) or jaw fractures;
- plan dental treatmentssuch as the placement of dental implants, crowns or bridges;
- track growth teeth in children and adolescents;
- identify early signs of oral cancer ;
- etc.
The interpretation of an x-ray leaves little room for doubt. It makes it possible to invalidate or confirm a pre-established diagnosis to better measure its severity or evolution. Dr. Nathalie Delphin
Instructions for use: how is a dental radiology examination carried out?
Dental x-rays are examinations very common in dentistry. Their procedure is very simple:
- You will first be welcomed by the dental clinic staff, who will review the process with you and will answer any questions you may have. You may need to wear a lead gown to protect the rest of your body from the x-rays, so be sure to wear clothing that is comfortable and easy to remove.
- Before proceeding with the x-ray, the dentist will discuss your medical history and any symptoms you may have. This will make it possible, in particular, to determine what type of dental x-ray is the most appropriate.
- You will then be directed to the x-ray room. Depending on the type of radio and the layout of the office, you will need to stand or sit on a special chair designed to hold your head and mouth in the required position.
- Just before starting the procedure, we will place lead protection on your chest and abdomen, or even on your neck to minimize exposure to x-rays.
- Once correctly installed, it is time to take images. For a retro-alveolar radiograph, a small x-ray plate will be placed in your mouth to capture the image of the target area. For a panoramic x-ray, you will want a special plate in front of your chest and the x-ray machine will rotate around your head to capture the image.
- While the x-ray is being taken, stay still to ensure sharp and precise images.
- Once the x-rays are completed, they will be developed or displayed on a screen and interpreted in real time by your dentist who will immediately show you the results. This is an opportunity to ask questions and discuss possible treatments.
How long does it last ?
The duration of a dental x-ray can vary depending on the type of x-ray and the number of images to be taken. In general, a retroalveolar radiograph does not last no more than two or three minutes and a panoramic x-ray does not last no more than a few seconds. The “longest” are volumetric cone beam imaging (CBCT), which can take several minutes.
It’s painful ?
Dental x-rays are absolutely not painful, assures Nathalie Delphin. However, some people may experience slight discomfort during the procedure, due to the required position or plaque in the mouth.
Where to do a dental x-ray?
Dental x-rays can be taken in dental practices or centers specializing in dental imaging. Regional community health centers, hospitals, and specialty dental centers also often have a dental radiology department.
Should we take special precautions before a dental imaging exam?
“Dental radiography does not require no special precautions : no need to fast, wear specific clothing or even have an injection of contrast product, explains the dental surgeon. However, you will be asked to take off your jewelry (earrings, piercings, etc.), your glasses and any other metal objects on your head or neck, as they may interfere with image quality.
Before the examination, be sure to communicate all relevant medical and dental information to your practitioner, including your medical history, any allergies, any possible pregnancy, and any changes in health since your last visit.
What are the risks and dangers associated with dental x-rays?
Dental X-rays are generally safe because they expose patients to very low levels of ionizing radiation, specifies Nathalie Delphin. As a reminder, excessive exposure to ionizing radiation can damage cells and increase the risk of cancer. But dental X-rays are much less of a concern than CT scans, for example, and use very low doses of radiation. “ X-rays are extremely precise, so that the amount of residual radiation is reduced to a minimum. And our equipment is inspected every year to ensure the safety of our patients, but also ours,” adds Dr. Delphin.
Can children and pregnant women have a dental x-ray?
Children can definitely take a dental x-ray. Pregnant women are generally encouraged to avoid these exams, particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy, as any exposure to ionizing radiation can potentially harm the developing fetus. But if the radio proves necessary, it is possible to minimize the risks thanks to the wearing an apron and/or lead collar (also valid for people with a thyroid problem, for example).
Can I have a dental x-ray if I have braces or a dental implant?
Rest assured, wearing braces, braces or a dental implant does not alter the x-ray in any way!
X-rays are very safe, common and above all very simple procedures to perform. The irradiation is brief, localized, very weak, and the diagnostic benefits far outweigh the potential risks. Dr. Nathalie Delphin, dental surgeon
How much does a dental x-ray cost? Is it reimbursed?
In France, the cost of a dental x-ray can vary depending on the type of x-ray, the region and the practitioner. Most dental x-rays are covered : Health Insurance generally reimburses 70% of costs and mutual insurance companies can cover the remainder.
Unsupported radios are those that are carried out as part of specific research. “An X-ray to check whether or not there is room to place an implant is, for example, not supported, because the implant itself is not supported by Social Security,” notes Nathalie Delphin. In fact, do not hesitate to ask for a quote before any intervention!
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