X-rays are a common procedure. With radiographs, broken, cracked, or splintered bones can be better assessed to help determine a plan of action to help repair it. We also use x-rays during our barium studies, for when your mischievous kiddo might have eaten something they probably shouldn't have. With a barium study, we can track the movements of their gut to see if there is any progress or if surgery will be required. During dentals, imaging of the mouth may be necessary, as we can't see if there might be subgingival abscessing. Or, perhaps your pet has a broken tooth - it's always best to get an x-ray after the dental procedure to see if the whole root has been removed, otherwise there may be complications such as abscesses to look forward to.