A dentist may use X-rays to identify dental issues such as cavities.
Dental radiography refers to the use of X-ray machines for dental work. Such technology is widely used in modern dental practices. X-rays provide an invaluable diagnostic tool for dentists. However, due to the harmful nature of radiation, such machinery must be used with extreme caution.
Purpose of X-Rays
X-ray machines take a "picture" of the mouth---including the teeth, bones and soft tissues such as gums---and help doctors identify potential problems. Some of the issues identified by X-rays include cavities, bone loss and hidden issues, such as ingrown teeth. In addition to identifying problems at the current time, X-ray records in a patient's chart can show the potential deterioration of teeth from year to year.
Dental Machinery
A dental X-ray machine is made up of three parts: the control panel, the extension arm and the "tube head" or area that holds the X-ray tube. These three parts allow dental professionals to correctly position and take X-rays of various sizes at a wide variety of angles. Patients are positioned in front of the machinery and draped in protective lead vests. The technician takes the image from behind a protective barrier or at a significant distance; this is one of the reasons that the extension arm is so important.
Finished X-Rays
After an X-ray is captured, the image is sent for processing (or processed on-site depending on available technology). It is difficult to take a perfect dental X-ray. Images may blur if the patient or machinery moved during exposure. Also, insufficient radiation or development time can lead to under-exposed radiographs. Overexposure is also possible if the perfect balance isn't reached. A finished X-ray will show light and dark areas depending on the density of the penetrated material. Teeth, for example, will appear lighter, while cavities and decay will appear darker.
Caution
Dental technicians receive training in protecting themselves and patients from radiation. In fact, a dental X-ray technician should never receive primary radiation from a dental X-ray when following safety precautions. Secondary radiation is more difficult to avoid. Reasonable precautions---such as protecting patients with lead vests, taking images from behind protective barriers and using the correct radiation dosage and exposure---can help technicians make X-rays as safe as possible.
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