What to expect from a dental X-ray
Aspen Dental helps patients get clarity fast. Dental X-rays show what a visual exam can miss so dentists can catch issues early and guide the next right step.
Key takeaways
Find cavities, infections and bone loss early
Digital dental X-rays keep radiation low
Many patients need X-rays every 6–24 months
What is a dental X-ray?
A dental X-ray, also called a dental radiograph, creates a quick image of teeth, gums and jawbone using low levels of radiation. Dentists use it to spot problems inside the teeth and bones during an exam.
Digital dental X-rays at Aspen Dental deliver clear images fast with lower radiation than traditional film.
What dental problems can X-rays detect?
Dental X-rays can reveal:
Cavities between teeth
Root infections
Gum disease and bone loss
Impacted teeth
Fractures
Cysts and abscesses
Wisdom tooth alignment
Jawbone changes
After taking X-rays, your Aspen Dental care team will review the images.
Types of dental X-rays
Bitewing X-rays
Bitewing X-rays show upper and lower back teeth in a single view. Dentists commonly use them to find cavities between teeth and monitor bone levels.
Periapical X-rays
Periapical X-rays focus on 1 tooth and capture it from crown to root. These images help identify root infections, abscesses and problems below the gumline.
Panoramic X-rays
A panoramic X-ray captures the full mouth, including teeth, jaws and surrounding structures. Dentists often use it for wisdom teeth evaluation, implant planning, orthodontics and detecting cysts or tumors.
Full-Mouth Series (FMX)
A full-mouth series uses multiple images to capture every tooth and the surrounding bone. Dentists may recommend this for new patients or complex oral health needs.
Digital X-rays
Digital X-rays use sensors instead of film, producing images quickly with minimal radiation. Dentists can zoom in for a more precise diagnosis.
Why choose Aspen Dental for digital X-rays?
Cutting-edge technology
Aspen Dental uses the latest digital technology, offering top-notch image quality and minimal radiation exposure.
Expertise
Teams members that are certified in radiology will capture digital X-rays, and your dentist will interpret the results, ensuring an accurate and efficient diagnosis.
Patient-centered care
The speed and clarity of digital X-rays allows you to make quicker and more informed decisions about your dental care. This puts you at the center of your treatment planning process.
Are dental X-rays safe?
Yes. Aspen Dental uses modern digital X-rays, which keep radiation exposure very low. Comparable to:
A short flight
A day in the sun
Using household electronics
X-rays are safe and may be used during pregnancy when medically necessary.
Dental X-ray cost
At Aspen Dental, X-ray costs can vary depending on the type and number of images you need, your local office and what your insurance covers. A simple X-ray is usually less than a panoramic or 3D scan and a full-mouth series typically costs more because it captures a wider set of images. For the clearest answer, your local Aspen Dental care team can share a personalized estimate based on your exam and coverage.
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How often do you need dental X-rays?
Timing depends on risk factors and your oral health.
General guidelines:
New patients: baseline X-rays
Pain or symptoms: as needed
Your dentist at Aspen Dental will determine your need for x-rays. The average is every 6-12 months.
Benefits of dental X-rays
Here are some ways dental X-rays protect your oral health:
Catch cavities
See decay hiding between teeth.
Spot infections
Find problems below the gumline.
Clearer treatment
Guide next steps with confidence.
Impacted teeth
Find their position accurately.
Track changes
Compare results from visit to visit.
Get clear answers
Improve accuracy, reduce guesswork.
Risks of dental X-rays
While Aspen Dental uses digital x-rays to keep radiation low, it is still helpful to know the risks, including:
Possible discomfort from the sensor
Cumulative exposure over time, though rare with appropriate use
What to expect during a dental X-ray at Aspen Dental
Aspen Dental dental X-rays are quick, comfortable and usually done in minutes.
A small digital sensor is placed inside your mouth
Gently bite down to keep the sensor steady
The images are captured in seconds
Your dentist will explain the results
Dental X-ray FAQs
What’s the cost of dental X-rays and cleaning without insurance?
Pricing depends on the X-rays needed. Contact your local Aspen Dental office for a clear estimate before your visit and ask about current offers.
What is a 3D dental X-ray and how much does it cost?
A 3D dental X-ray, also called a cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan, gives a detailed view of teeth, jawbone and nearby structures. Dentists often use it for planning implants or complex care. Cost varies by office, scan area and insurance coverage, so it helps to contact your local Aspen Dental office for an estimate.
Is a dental X-ray painful?
They are generally not considered painful. It may feel a bit snug from the sensor, especially in sensitive areas, but it only lasts a moment.
How long do dental X-rays take?
Most dental X-rays take just a few minutes from start to finish. The image captures in seconds and digital images show up quickly so your Aspen Dental dentist can review them during the visit.
Can you get dental X-rays while pregnant?
Dentists may take X-rays during pregnancy when medically necessary and with appropriate shielding. Tell the Aspen Dental care team if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
Can I refuse dental X-rays?
You always have a choice. Dentists recommend X-rays because they help find problems that may not show up during a visual exam. If you refuse X-rays, your dentist may not be able to provide a full exam, diagnosis or prognosis.
How many dental X-rays are safe in a month?
Dental X-rays are very safe and it is best to rely on your dentist to determine what is necessary for your situation.
How much radiation is in dental X-rays?
Dental X-rays use very low radiation, especially with digital technology. Radiation from an airplane ride, or sun exposure can expose higher radiation exposure than dental digital X-rays
Do dental X-rays show cancer?
Dental X-rays can sometimes show unusual changes in the teeth or jaw, but they cannot diagnose cancer on their own. If something looks unusual, your Aspen Dental dentist may recommend next steps, like a clinical exam, additional imaging or a referral for further evaluation.