Comprehensive Dental Exams
A full, head-to-toe look at your mouth that sets a starting point for your care.
About comprehensive dental examsPreventive care
Dental X-rays and imaging in Herriman
Some problems hide where no one can see them, between teeth, under fillings or in the bone. Dental X-rays let your dentist find them and plan care with fewer surprises.
Why do I need dental X-rays?
A visual exam only shows the surfaces of your teeth and gums. X-rays show what is inside and below, like decay between teeth, infection at a root tip and the bone that holds your teeth. They help your dentist catch problems early and plan treatment.
- Our office uses digital X-rays
- Each image takes only a few seconds
- How often you need them depends on your risk
What X-rays can help find
Your dentist uses X-rays as part of new patient exams, some routine checkups and many treatment plans. They can help show:
- Cavities between teeth or under old fillings
- Bone loss from gum disease
- Infection or abscess at the tip of a root
- Wisdom teeth that are stuck under the gums
- The bone where an implant may go
- Damage after an injury to the face or mouth
- Cysts and other changes in the jaw
You do not get X-rays at every visit. Your dentist decides how often based on your age, your history of cavities and gum disease and any symptoms you have.
What to expect
- Getting ready. You wear a lead apron or thyroid collar if needed. Tell us if you are or might be pregnant.
- Taking the images. A small sensor goes in your mouth and you bite down gently. You hold still for a few seconds while the image is taken. We may take a few from different angles.
- Seeing the results. Digital images show up on a screen almost right away. Your dentist can zoom in and point out what they see.
Common types of dental X-rays
Bitewings show the crowns of your back teeth and help find cavities between them. Periapical images show a whole tooth from crown to root tip. A full mouth series combines several images and is often taken at a first visit.
Cost and insurance
Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.
FAQ
Questions about dental imaging and x-rays
Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental X-rays use a very small dose of radiation, and digital sensors need less than old film. We only take the images you need, and we use shielding when it makes sense.
How often do I need X-rays?
It depends on you. Someone with healthy teeth may need bitewings every year or two. Someone with frequent cavities or gum disease may need them more often.
Can I get X-rays while pregnant?
Routine X-rays are often put off until after pregnancy. If you have a dental problem that needs care, your dentist can take a needed image with extra shielding. Always tell us if you are pregnant.
Can you use X-rays from my last dentist?
Often yes, if they are recent and clear. Ask your last office to send them to us before your visit, which may save you from repeat images.
Related care
You may also want to know about
Intraoral Camera
A tiny camera that shows you close-up pictures of your teeth on a screen.
About intraoral cameraDental Cleanings and Checkups
Routine visits that remove plaque and tartar and check your teeth and gums.
About dental cleanings and checkupsQuestions?
Call to book your visit
Our Herriman team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.