Dental X-Rays Service in Washington DC

What are Dental X-rays?

A dental x-ray is an image that enables us to see underneath the surface of teeth and gums. These images can help us to see decay, infections, impacted teeth, bone loss and many other oral-related problems. X-rays use a very minimal amount of radiation, so they are safe for patients of all ages. Our goal is to provide you with a comfortable and safe experience when having x-rays taken.

Why would you need Dental X-ray?

The main reason you would need dental x-rays is because in many cases, an examination just isn’t enough. There may be a lot of things going on below the surface of your gums and we won’t be able to see anything without the help of an x-ray. Some of the different things that we can see on an x-ray include underlying tooth decay, root infections, bone loss and impacted wisdom teeth. For children, x-rays allow us to monitor development and growth of permanent teeth. How often an x-ray is updated depends on the type: some are needed annually, while others are only needed every 3-5 years. X-rays are also an important diagnostic tool during an emergency, when we need to see inside a tooth quickly to find out what is causing the pain.

Types of Dental X-rays and What They Show

Different types of X-rays capture different views of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures. Here’s what each one does and when we use it.

Bitewing X-rays

The most common type taken during routine checkups. Bitewings show the upper and lower back teeth in a single image, revealing cavities between teeth, the condition of existing fillings or crowns, and early signs of bone loss from gum disease. You’ll typically have bitewings taken once a year as part of your preventive care.

Periapical X-rays

These capture the entire tooth from crown to root tip, including the surrounding bone. Periapical X-rays are used when Dr. White or Dr. Park need to evaluate a specific tooth in detail, such as diagnosing an abscess, assessing damage after an injury, or planning a root canal or implant.

Panoramic X-rays

A panoramic image captures your entire mouth in one wide shot, including all teeth, both jaw joints (TMJ), the sinuses, and the nasal area. This broad view is useful for evaluating wisdom teeth, assessing jaw alignment, planning orthodontic treatment like Invisalign®, and screening for cysts, tumors, or other abnormalities. Panoramic X-rays are typically taken every 3 to 5 years or as needed.

Cone Beam CT (CBCT) Scan

A CBCT scan produces a three-dimensional image of your teeth, bone, nerve pathways, and soft tissues. This advanced imaging is used for complex cases: dental implant planning, evaluating impacted teeth, diagnosing TMJ disorders, and assessing bone structure before surgical procedures. It provides far more detail than a standard X-ray and allows for precise treatment planning.

What makes someone a candidate for Dental X-rays?

Most of our patients are candidates to have dental x-rays taken. Because we use such a small amount of radiation, the process is deemed safe and necessary for those coming into our office. However, we will always go over your medical history prior to recommending any type of x-ray procedure.

What happens during the Dental X-ray process?

Our friendly team member will drape a lead apron over your midsection. We then place a tiny, comfortable device inside of the mouth and behind several of your teeth. Our x-ray machine is then aimed at this device and the image is taken. We repeat this exact process for all other necessary x-rays. Our team of experts will then review your x-rays to help in creating a unique treatment plan. We often recommend that x-rays be taken regularly and at most appointments.