The Importance of Intraoral Dental X-rays

X-rays are required to help dentists identify problems with the teeth, mouth, gums and jaw. There are different types of x-rays and this blog will discuss the different types and why x-rays should be carried out.

Types of intraoral X-rays

Intraoral means that the film or sensor is inside of your mouth and there are different types of intraoral X-rays.

Bitewings – these show the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth and help to detect decay between the teeth and show any changes that occur below your gum line. Bitewing x-rays do not usually show the roots of your teeth.

Periapical– these show the entire tooth, from the crown to the root tip and help to detect decay, gum disease and bone loss as well as any other issues surrounding the tooth or bone.

Occlusal – these help to detect any issues in the floor or root of the mouth. They can help identify abscesses, jaw fractures and cysts or to evaluate developing teeth.

X-rays can also be used to determine the length of roots when carrying out a root canal treatment or extraction. They are also necessary to consider whether there is enough space in the mouth for new incoming teeth and to monitor the development of wisdom teeth

How often are X-rays carried out?

If you are a new patient, the dentist will normally take x-rays at the initial visit to be able to assess your mouth and determine whether any treatment is necessary. After this, it is considered good practice to have x-rays taken every 1-2 years.

However, this may vary depending on the dental history of a patient, such as whether they have poor oral hygiene and whether they continue to get new cavities. It will also depend on the age and current condition of the patient’s mouth.

It is important to attend the dentist as directed by your dentists, but sadly in this current climate, a lot of people are unable to attend a dentist or have access to one.

Failure to take x-rays

Our team has dealt with numerous cases where a dentist has failed to take x-rays. Further, the dentists may have taken the x-ray, but failed to report on the same or act upon the results of the x-ray. The implications for the patient, tend to be, but are not limited to the following problems:

• Undiagnosed decay and further treatment being required, such as a root canal filling, rather than a simple filling and the tooth could require extraction.
• Undiagnosed periodontal disease, with the eventual loss of teeth
• Unnecessary pain and sensitivity as a result of decay or an undiagnosed abscess
• Antibiotic resistance, if a patient is prescribed antibiotics, rather than the dentist getting to the problem at source.
• Expensive remedial treatment being required.

Our Experience

We unfortunately see many clients who have undergone extensive treatment and tooth loss, due to a dentist failing to take dental x-rays or failing to act upon x-ray results.

I recently acted for a Claimant, who received £36,500 for the failure by the dentist to undertake a structured approach to the prevention of decay. The dentist also failed to record interpretive analysis of the periapical radiographs and failed to diagnose decay on numerous teeth from bitewing x-rays that were taken. As a result, the Claimant suffered difficulties eating, intermittent discomfort, sensitivity, pain and infections and swelling necessitating antibiotics. The Claimant was also expected to lose four teeth and one other tooth required extensive remedial treatment. The Claimant also suffered psychologically with an adjustment disorder and anxiety.

If you or a family member or friend has suffered from a dentist failing to take x-rays, which has resulted in a delayed diagnosis or increased treatment, please contact our Dental Negligence Team for advice on the merits of a possible dental negligence claim. If we consider there is a claim, we can seek compensation for any remedial work.