Radiographs, commonly know as x-rays, are an essential tool for your dentist to properly diagnose your oral health. They allow your dentist to see beyond what can be seen visually and provide the ability to diagnose dental disease in the early stages– before it has advanced to the point of causing discomfort and destruction. X-rays assist the dentist in determining the presence and degree of dental caries (cavities), periodontal disease, abscesses and abnormal growths, such as tumors or cysts. They also show the location and condition of impacted or unerupted teeth.