X-rays are used to create pictures of the internal structures of the body. The relevant body part is exposed to a controlled amount of ionizing radiation that is invisible and does not create any sensation when passing through the body. After passing through the body, an image is recorded on a digital device. This image is then viewed on a high-resolution monitor for interpretation and reviewed by the patient's physician.

Typically the radiation dosage for one picture is about the same as you receive from background radiation over a 10-day period.

As further protection, the Technologist will often cover sensitive areas of the body, such as reproductive organs, with lead shielding if the area is not of clinical interest.

There is no preparation for most x-rays.