How do you see bone loss by looking at dental x-rays? professionals do not need a frame of reference. i'm curious what indicates bone loss.

Varies: If it is localized to a specific area, the bone loss will appear "darker" than the normal bone. If it is diffuse, then it is a general impression that the bone looks darker than normal. Which sometimes can be hard to say because it is partly based upon the variability in technique each time an xray is shot. In orthopedics, if there is any question we will order a dexa scan to check bone density

Perio. Diag. and Rx.: Good day; The dental radiograph is essential to diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. Initially the x-ray will indicate the level of bone support. The level diminishes as you age. Irregular(slanting) interdental bone levels indicate periodontal disease. A thickening of the perio- ligament indicates active inflammation; often the papilla is tender and bleeds. X-ray + exam=diag. & tm

Changes: A change in density, change in level, and often a defect are easily seen. Together with years of experience of seeing both healthy and diseased dentitions, your practitioner can make a fairly accurate assessment. Add visualization and periodontal probing and you get the complete picture.

Mostly the BONES!: it generally isnt from the teeth x ray that the dentist makes that observation, but the bones that hold up the teeth. If they get thin, they go invisible on the x ray (dark) and it has to be pretty bad for this to be seen. Furthermore there can also be decalcification on the teeth, but that is seen by looking at the teeth not the x ray. But you can get teeth problems without the bones being hit...