Diagnostic procedures are used to clinically diagnose oral conditions such as tooth decay, infections, gum problems, and various oral pathologies. The most common diagnostic tool would be the dental x-ray. Dental Check up. Oral examination to check for cavities, gum disease, and infection. Bitewing x-ray (BW). The best x-ray for detecting cavities that are in between the teeth. Dental cone beam CT (CBCT). A 3D image which is used for implant planning and also for detecting fractures as well as extra nerves in root canals. Oral cancer screening. According to the CDC there are about 45, 000 new cases per year. Periapical x-ray (PA). The x-ray that will show infections at the root of the teeth. Panoramic x-ray (PANO). An x-ray that will show all of the teeth in one image. It is particularly favored by oral surgeons because it shows how close impacted wisdom teeth are to the nerves. Vitality testing. These tests involve a cold, hot, and electric stimulus to see if you have a dead tooth.