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Digital imaging: dental X-rays and CBCT
X-rays show things a dentist cannot see by looking, like new holes between teeth or teeth stuck under the gum.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. It does not replace a check by a dentist or doctor. If you are worried, contact a dental professional.
When you need X-rays
Not every visit needs one. Your dentist decides based on your age, your mouth health, your risk and any symptoms. Children may need them more often because their teeth are still growing.
If you change dentists, ask for your old X-rays to be sent. You may not need new ones.
Is it safe?
Normal dental X-rays use very low doses of radiation. The risk is very small.
What is CBCT?
Cone-beam CT (CBCT) is a 3D scan. The machine turns around your head. It can help plan implants, look at the jaws, or check root canals and injuries.
CBCT usually gives more radiation than a normal dental X-ray, but less than most other CT scans. Children are more sensitive to radiation, so it should only be used when it is really needed.
When to see a dentist
- You want to know why an X-ray or scan is needed. It is fine to ask.
Related: Intraoral scanning · Evidence and regulation
Sources
Paraphrased in plain words. Links checked and accessed 21 Oct 2026.
- ADA MouthHealthy. “X-rays”. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/x-rays (accessed 21 Oct 2026).
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Dental cone-beam computed tomography”. https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/medical-x-ray-imaging/dental-cone-beam-computed-tomography (accessed 21 Oct 2026).