Your dentist wants to take an X-ray. You have heard different things about radiation exposure and frequency. Here are the types of dental X-rays, what each one shows, and how often you actually need them.

Dental X-rays are one of the most useful tools in modern dentistry. They reveal things your dentist simply cannot see by looking in your mouth what is happening inside your teeth, beneath your gums and in your jawbone.

Looking at your teeth from the outside only tells half the story. X-rays help your dentist detect decay between teeth, under existing fillings and beneath the gum line. They reveal infections at the root tip and bone loss from gum disease. They are also essential for planning treatments like crowns, implants and root canals.

The radiation dose from dental X-rays is extremely low. A typical bitewing X-ray exposes you to less radiation than you would get from a short flight. Modern digital X-rays are even lower than traditional film X-rays.

Bitewing X-rays are the most common. You bite down on a small tab and the X-ray captures your upper and lower teeth in one image. These show the crowns of your teeth and are excellent for detecting decay between teeth and changes in bone density.

Periapical X-rays show a single tooth from crown to root. Your dentist uses these when they need to examine a specific tooth in detail for example, to check the root structure or the bone surrounding a particular tooth.

Occlusal X-rays capture a larger view of the floor of your mouth or the palate. These help your dentist see the position of teeth that have not come through yet, particularly in children.

This depends on your individual oral health. For a new patient, your dentist will usually recommend a set of baseline X-rays to establish your current condition.

For recall appointments, bitewing X-rays are typically recommended every 12 to 24 months for adults with healthy teeth and gums. If you have ongoing dental work, gum disease or a high risk of decay, your dentist may recommend X-rays more frequently.

Children may need X-rays more often as their teeth and jaws are developing. Your dentist will only recommend X-rays when the benefit outweighs the small risk.

You have the right to ask why an X-ray is needed. Your dentist should always explain what they are looking for and how it will help your treatment. If you have concerns, talk to your dentist they will be happy to discuss them.