Orthodontic X-Rays
Patients at the dental clinic usually get astonished when they hear that their orthodontist also requires them to get an X-ray done. As if, the individual tooth radiographs before its treatment weren’t already enough. However, for the correct alignment of teeth, an OPG, panoramic X-ray of the upper and lower jaws, including the teeth is required. an x-ray is an important tool for diagnosis, when it comes to orthodontic procedures. It is necessary that you understand its importance.
What is an X-Ray?
An X-Ray, also known as a radiograph, is an imaging test, which is used in dental and medical fields both. The X-Ray machine uses radiation beams to see through the skin, soft tissues to the underlying teeth and bones. Several different types of X-Rays are used in the orthodontic setup and they can be produced from either inside or outside the mouth.
Types of X-Rays
• Intraoral X-Rays, like the bitewing enables the dentist to see images of individual teeth.
• Panoramic X-Rays are a common type that show the entire mouth in one film.
• Cephalometric X-Rays project the entire head’s image, so that the teeth can be seen in relation to the jaw.
The type of X-Rays needed are as per the treatment plan and requirements.
Orthodontic X-Rays
There are various reasons behind the need of more x-rays for orthodontic procedures as compared to the basic ones taken at the general dentist’s office. Initial x-rays allow the orthodontists to make a treatment plan, as it shows the location of every individual tooth. It enables the orthodontist to come up with the best treatment plan for correctly aligning teeth with the help of orthodontic procedures.
Moreover, the x-ray also shows abscesses and any other underlying teeth problems. All of which need to be treated before an orthodontic procedure starts. The reason why orthodontists are reliant on x-rays is because it is the only way to show the roots of the teeth. Abnormal length of the root can majorly affect treatment.
What makes orthodontic x-rays different?
Patients have this impression that they can use their old dental x-ray while visiting an orthodontist’s office. But this isn’t possible because dental x-rays do not give all the information required. Most of the x-rays from dental offices are panoramic and only show the growth of the teeth and tooth decay. Orthodontic x-rays, however, show the entire jawline and detailed images of the roots. It is a requirement before starting any orthodontic procedures, such as braces or taking impressions for Invisalign treatment.
Which patient needs and x-ray?
There are several reasons for the need of x-rays, and it isn’t just for the alignment of teeth. A person’s age, state, oral health, medical health and current status makes a huge difference. Children mostly require repetitive x-rays as compared to adults because they are still growing and any changes in the mouth can affect the treatment plan. Moreover, people with gum disease, bone resorption and any other severe oral health conditions also need to get an x-ray done.
Do you have questions about the position of your teeth? Make an appointment so we can discuss your wishes and possibilities.
