Digital X-Rays
There a number of kinds of digital radiographs (x-rays) that are needed for proper diagnosis of caries (cavities) and any number of other types of oral pathology, including cancers that affect the bone and periodontitis (periodontal disease) that affects the attachment and support of teeth. It is recommended that patients get a panoramic film or full mouth series of radiographs once every 3 – 5 years to update the entire status of the mouth and bitewing radiographs once every year to check for tooth decay that may not be observable on intra-oral examination by the dentist. Periapical radiographs, which give a look at the apex (tip) of the root, are often taken when a patient presents with a toothache or there is concern of root pathology (such as a fracture from trauma).