X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that capture images of the inside of your body. Your dentist can view these images to identify problems with your jaw, teeth, and gums. They can also use panoramic X-rays to see your entire mouth in a single image. Some common reasons to get an X-ray to include:

• A new cavity or infection needs to be identified and treated before it becomes worse.
• You are seeing a new specialist and want your existing records to be reviewed.
• You have a toothache and want to figure out if it’s a cavity or something else.
• You have a broken tooth and need treatment to fix it.
• You want to verify that dental implants will integrate properly into your gums and bone.
• You recently had surgery on a mouth-related area, such as your mouth or jaw.
• You are having issues with your TMJ and wish to diagnose the problem.
• You have a tumor in your mouth that needs to be examined.
• You need to have wisdom teeth removed before they cause more problems.