What Are the Different Types of Dental X-Rays & Why Are They Important?

Often, an X-ray is necessary to get to the root cause of your dental concern. Dentists can’t always identify the problem just by looking inside your mouth. There could be cavities between teeth, bone loss, infections, or even impacted wisdom teeth, issues that the eye can’t see. That’s why they may recommend an X-ray, which reveals what lies beneath the surface.

In this blog, we’ll arm you with the right knowledge so you can ask the right questions and make informed decisions about your dental health.

Interesting Tidbit How Do X-Rays Work? X-rays are a type of electromagnetic energy beam used to create images of the inside of your body. As they pass through, different parts of the body absorb them to varying degrees. Bones absorb most X-rays, which is why they appear white on the screen. Muscles and tissues absorb less, so they appear grey, while air lets X-rays pass through completely, making it appear black. Now, can you guess how a crack in the bone would show up? It allows more X-rays to pass through than solid bone, so it appears as a dark line within the white.

What Are Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays are images that capture what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. These radiographic images help identify dental concerns that may be hiding in the nooks and crannies of your mouth, such as cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth.

What Are the Different Types of Dental X-Rays?

There are two main types of dental X-rays based on where the imaging film or sensor is placed: intraoral and extraoral.

1. Intraoral X-Rays

Intraoral X-rays are the most common type. These involve placing the X-ray film or digital sensor inside the mouth. They offer high-detail images of individual teeth and are primarily used to detect issues such as:

• Cavities between teeth
• Tooth root problems
• Bone loss due to gum disease
• Abscesses or cysts
• Tooth development in children

Since the sensor is close to the teeth, intraoral X-rays provide a detailed view and help with early diagnosis and treatment planning.

2. Extraoral X-Rays

Extraoral X-rays, on the other hand, involve placing the film or sensor outside the mouth. These focus more on the jawbone, skull, and overall dental structure rather than individual teeth. They’re typically used to:

• Assess jaw growth and development
• Detect impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth)
• Examine temporomandibular joints (TMJ)
• Plan orthodontic treatments
• Spot tumors or cysts in the jaw area

While extraoral X-rays are less detailed than intraoral ones, they offer a broader view, which is essential for diagnosing larger issues involving the jaw and facial bones.

Types of Intraoral X-Rays & Their Uses

Types	Description	Uses
Bitewing X-Rays	These show the upper and lower back teeth in a single view.	To detect cavities between teeth and monitor bone levels supporting the teeth. These are commonly used during routine checkups.
Periapical X-Rays	These focus on one or two teeth at a time and capture the entire tooth from crown to root, along with the surrounding bone.	To identify root infections, abscesses, cysts, or any bone loss at the root tip.
Occlusal X-Rays	These capture the floor or roof of the mouth to show the full arch of teeth in either the upper or lower jaw.	To detect extra or impacted teeth, or locate jaw fractures and cysts. These are also often used in pediatric dentistry and can be considered a type of baby X-ray, helping monitor tooth development, detect extra teeth, or locate jaw issues in young children.

Types of Extraoral X-Rays & Their Uses

Types	Description	Uses
Panoramic X-Rays	As the name suggests, panoramic X-rays capture a broad view of the entire mouth, including all teeth, both jaws, sinuses, and TMJ. For example, if you want to get a wisdom teeth X-ray, your dentist will most probably recommend this one.	To detect impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth), jaw problems, bone abnormalities, and for orthodontic or surgical planning.
Cephalometric X-Rays	A side-view X-ray of the entire head, including teeth, jaw, and facial structure.	Primarily in orthodontics to assess jaw alignment and plan treatments like braces.
Cone Beam CT (CBCT)	A 3D scan that shows teeth, bone, nerve pathways, and soft tissues in great detail.	For complex procedures like dental implants, root canal treatments, and surgical planning, especially where precision is crucial.

Digital Imaging in Dentistry

Modern dental practices are relying more and more on digital imaging than traditional film-based X-rays, and for good reason. Digital dental X-rays use electronic sensors instead of film to capture images, which are then instantly viewable on a computer screen.

Why is digital imaging gaining importance?

• Lower radiation exposure: Digital X-rays typically use up to 80% less radiation than traditional film X-rays, making them safer for patients.

• Instant results: Dentists can view and analyze high-quality images immediately, speeding up diagnosis and treatment planning.

• Enhanced accuracy: The ability to zoom in and adjust contrast helps detect even the smallest signs of decay or bone loss.

• Environmentally friendly: No chemicals are needed to develop images, making the process safer for the planet.

• Easy sharing and storage: Digital files can be easily stored in your dental records or shared with specialists if needed.

Digital imaging has revolutionized dental diagnostics, offering a safer, faster, and more precise way to monitor your oral health.

How Much Does a Dental X-Ray Cost?

One of the most common questions patients ask is: How much does a dental X-ray cost? Well, extraoral X-rays usually cost more than intraoral. Here’s a breakdown of costs for you:

Type of intraoral dental X-ray	Average cost	Dental X-Ray Cost
Bitewing	$65	$52-$120
Periapical	$55	$42-$102
Full-mouth series	$226	$175-$428
Occlusal	$55	$43-$103

Type of extraoral dental X-ray	Average cost	Dental X-Ray Cost
Panoramic	$200	$157-$343
Cephalometric (Ceph)	$141	$110-$274
Cone-beam CT	$466	$361-$879

How Much Is a Dental X-Ray Without Insurance?

In most cases, dental X-rays are covered by insurance, especially when they are part of a routine dental exam. Many dental insurance plans include coverage for intraoral X-rays, like bitewings, once or twice a year, as they are considered preventive care.

However, the extent of coverage can vary:

• Routine X-rays (like bitewings or periapical) are usually covered at 100% under preventive benefits.

• Panoramic or full-mouth X-rays may be covered only once every few years.

• Advanced imaging, like Cone Beam CT scans, may require pre-authorization and could be partially covered depending on your plan and the reason for the scan.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with your dental insurance provider or ask your dental office to verify your benefits before the procedure.

What Happens During a Dental X-Ray?

Getting a dental X-ray is a quick, painless, and straightforward process. Here’s what typically happens during your visit:

1. Preparation

You’ll be asked to wear a lead apron to protect your body from unnecessary radiation. In some cases, a small collar may also be placed around your neck to shield your thyroid gland.

2. Positioning

Depending on the type of X-ray (bitewing, panoramic, etc.), the dental assistant or technician will position you accordingly. For intraoral X-rays, a small sensor or film is placed inside your mouth. You’ll be asked to bite down gently to hold it in place.

3. Taking the X-Ray

You’ll need to stay very still for just a few seconds while the machine takes the image. It’s completely painless—you won’t feel a thing.

4. Reviewing the Images

Once the images are captured, they appear instantly on a computer screen (in digital imaging). The dentist will review them to check for any hidden issues such as decay, infections, or bone loss.

The whole process usually takes only a few minutes, and it provides valuable insights that help your dentist diagnose problems early, before they become more serious or painful.

Final Thoughts

Dental X-rays help your dentist get to the root of your concern—quite literally. They play a crucial role in diagnosing hidden issues and are essential for maintaining your oral health and making informed decisions about your care.

At Dos Caminos Dental, we combine state-of-the-art equipment with expert care to ensure every diagnosis is accurate and every treatment is top-quality. Book your appointment with us today.