Intra-oral x-rays are those that scan the inside of the mouth and teeth. Extraoral x-rays provide a more complete picture of the jaw and skull. Although they aren’t as detailed as intra oral x-rays, extraoral x-rays can help to serve a different purpose such as identifying problems like impacted teeth or a temporomandibular joint problem. They help to assess the growth and development of the jaw, unlike their internally focused counterparts which only check for signs of problems like cavities and infected teeth. It’s usual for patients who visit the dental clinic for treatment to experience intraoral or extraoral x-rays. However, many do not know what they are called as well as their purpose.
We’ll go over the most common types of extraoral x-rays below:
Panoramic (Panorex x-rays)
This x-ray consists of a machine that rotates around the head capturing the entire mouth in one image. This is often the x-ray used by the dentist if he suspects jaw issues or signs of an impacted tooth. It’s also often used before dental implant surgery. This x-ray can highlight signs of serious issues like tumours and cysts in the mouth. The panoramic x-ray is also used to identify bodies that have been burned or damaged badly in an unidentifiable death.
Cephalometric projections
This x-ray consists of a machine that rotates around the head capturing the entire mouth in one image. This is often the x-ray used by the dentist if he suspects jaw issues or signs of an impacted tooth. It’s also often used before dental implant surgery. This x-ray can highlight signs of serious issues like tumours and cysts in the mouth. The panoramic x-ray is also used to identify bodies that have been burned or damaged badly in an unidentifiable death.
Multi-slice computed tomography (MCT)
Whenever the dentist needs to isolate a certain part of the mouth and get more details regarding it, he uses the MCT machine. This machine is designed to take a digital slice of the section that the dentist wants to view clearly. It does this by blurring out the rest of the mouth.
Cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT)
This is an x-ray that is known to emit low radiation but deliver high-quality 3D imaging which allows the dentists and orthodontist quick and efficient scanning and diagnosis. It’s suitably used to highlight problems in implantology, endodontics, and periodontics.
Sialography
This x-ray is used to diagnose salivary gland issues. A special dye is injected into the salivary glands and makes them stand out more in the x-ray film. This x-ray can help quickly diagnose issues like Sjogren’s syndrome which is an autoimmune condition that hinders the production of saliva and tears.
