Dental X-rays allow your dentist to see areas of the mouth that cannot be examined visually. They are an essential diagnostic tool that helps your dentist provide accurate and safe care.
X-rays can reveal:
Early tooth decay between teeth or under existing fillings — often invisible during a visual examination
Bone loss from gum disease
Infections or cysts at the root tips
Unerupted or impacted teeth (for example, wisdom teeth)
Root fractures
Changes in the bone that may require further investigation
Types of dental X-rays
Different types of X-ray give different information:
Bitewing X-rays — show the upper and lower back teeth on one side. Used primarily to detect decay between teeth and assess bone levels. Most commonly taken at check-up appointments.
Periapical X-rays — show one or two individual teeth from the crown to the root tip. Used to check roots, bone around the root, and periapical (root tip) health.
Panoramic X-ray (OPG) — a full-mouth view showing all teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures in a single image. Useful for assessing wisdom teeth, jaw conditions, and for initial orthodontic or implant planning.
CBCT scan — a 3D X-ray giving highly detailed views of the bone. Used for implant planning, complex extractions, and endodontic cases.
How often are X-rays taken?
The FGDP(UK) guidelines state that X-rays should only be taken when they will provide information that changes the clinical management of the patient — not routinely without clinical justification.
Frequency depends on your individual risk level:
Adults at low risk of decay or gum disease: bitewing X-rays approximately every 2 years
Adults at moderate risk: bitewing X-rays approximately annually
Adults at high risk: bitewing X-rays approximately every 6 months
Children: frequency based on individual risk assessment
Are dental X-rays safe?
Dental X-rays involve very small doses of radiation. To put this in perspective:
A single bitewing X-ray delivers approximately 0.001–0.008 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation
The average UK background radiation we are all exposed to from our natural environment is approximately 2.7 mSv per year
A transatlantic flight exposes you to approximately 0.08 mSv from cosmic radiation
Dental practices in the UK are regulated under the IRMER regulations (Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations), which require that radiation exposure is kept as low as reasonably practicable (the ALARP principle). Modern digital X-ray systems use significantly less radiation than older film-based systems.
Pregnancy and X-rays
If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, always tell your dentist before any X-rays are taken.
Dental X-ray doses are very small and the X-ray beam is not directed at the abdomen for standard dental views. According to FGDP guidelines, there is no requirement to delay standard dental radiography during pregnancy. However, your dentist may offer you the option of deferring non-urgent X-rays until after the birth if you prefer. If an X-ray is clinically necessary — for example, to diagnose an infection or dental emergency — it is considered safe and should not be delayed.
Questions to ask your dentist
Why is this specific X-ray needed and what are you looking for?
How will the result change my treatment plan?
Is the CBCT scan necessary, or is a conventional X-ray sufficient for my case?
What does my X-ray show?
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. It is intended to support — not replace — the discussion with your dentist about your individual options, risks, and treatment plan. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances. Your dentist will confirm exact fees and what is suitable for your specific circumstances before you agree to any treatment.
References
Aligned with guidance from: FGDP(UK) Radiography Guidelines, SDCEP, PHE (Public Health England), IRMER Regulations.