A plain dental X-ray, sometimes called a periapical or intraoral film, shows one or two teeth in detail together with the root and the bone around it.
What it shows
- Decay between teeth or beneath a filling
- Infection at the root tip
- Bone loss from gum disease
- The length and shape of a root before root canal treatment
- Cracked teeth and injury after trauma
The examination
A small sensor is placed inside the mouth and the exposure takes a fraction of a second. The whole visit takes a few minutes and needs no preparation. Tell the operator if you are, or may be, pregnant.
How it differs from an OPG
A plain film gives fine detail of a small area. An OPG shows both jaws in one wide image but in less detail. Your dentist will choose whichever answers the question being asked.
