Dental X-rays (radiographs) are internal images of your teeth and jaws. Dentists use X-rays to examine structures they can't see during a routine checkup, like your jawbone, nerves, sinuses and teeth roots. These X-rays are used with low levels of radiation to capture images of the interior of your teeth and gums. This can help your dentist to identify problems, like cavities, tooth decay, and impacted teeth. Dental X-rays may seem complex, but they’re actually very common tools that are just as important as your teeth cleanings.