Periapical X-ray

A periapical X-ray focuses on a small area. It shows one or two complete teeth, from the visible crown down to the root and the surrounding bone. Dentists use it when they need to look closely at a tooth that hurts or at the tissue near the root tip.

This view can help show signs of infection, bone loss, or damage at the root. It is often used while planning or checking root canal treatment, and for other single-tooth concerns.

It is one of several image types, along with the bitewing and the panoramic X-ray. Most are taken as a digital X-ray. Ask your dentist why a particular image is needed.