X-rays provide useful visual data for dentists to utilize when treating you. Occasionally, guests to our office ask about the radiation from X-rays and the dangers associated with high-exposure. Rest assured, a dental X-ray is one of the safest medical imaging procedures there is. Here’s what you need to know about getting a dental X-ray.
The Purpose of Oral X-Rays
X-ray imaging of the mouth can show our dental team damage to your teeth as well as disease. They can also show incoming teeth that could be problematic. X-rays allow our team to prevent problems by addressing them early. Rather than wait for excessive tooth damage to become visible, a simple X-ray procedure can identify it before it becomes painful.
Dangers of X-Ray Radiation
Excessive radiation exposure has been linked to increasing the risk of cancer. However, not all radiation sources are the same. It matters greatly where the radiation is coming from, how much you are exposed to, and for what length of time. X-rays have not been shown to present a significant increase in cancer development.
Comparing X-Ray Radiation
Dental X-rays are among the lowest dose of radiation producing procedures in medical imaging. It would take roughly 1,200 panoramic x-rays of your mouth to equal one CT Scan. Did you know that when you fly in an airplane you are exposed to a small amount of radiation? A panoramic X-ray of your mouth is only half of the radiation you’re exposed to on a 7-hour plane ride. The amount of radiation is even lower for a routine X-ray exam. A routine procedure including 4 intraoral images is about the same dose of radiation from a 1-2 hour plane ride. A dental X-ray provides less than the amount of radiation you are exposed to in the average day from natural radiation.
Safety First
Even though dental X-rays are safe and expose you to a small amount of radiation, our office takes additional measures to keep you safe. First, state laws and regulations set the limit of radiation patients can be exposed to. We never exceed these restrictions. Our experienced team is also trained to use the X-ray equipment. Visitors are provided with a shield or bib that provides additional protection.
What You Can Do
Communication is key. If you are a new patient, please provide us with your medical records so that our team knows about any previous medical imaging you have had. Talk to our dentist about your concerns. Together we’ll work with you to ensure you are treated in a safe environment.
Dental X-rays are a safe and incredibly helpful procedure. They allow our dentist to detect problems and develop solutions specific to your mouth. Dental X-rays provide a significantly lower dose of radiation than other safe medical imaging methods. We strive to create an atmosphere where our guests are comfortable. If you have any concerns, please let us know.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule your next examination, please contact our office.
Resources: http://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/x-rays
http://www.xrayrisk.com/faq.php#q7
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dentists take X-rays during dental visits?
Dental X-rays allow dentists to see issues that cannot be detected during a visual exam alone. They help identify tooth decay between teeth, infections, bone loss, and developing teeth that may cause future problems. By detecting concerns early, X-rays help prevent pain, extensive treatment, and complications, making them an essential part of preventive dental care.
Are dental X-rays safe for children and adults?
Yes, dental X-rays are considered very safe for both children and adults. They use extremely low levels of radiation and are among the lowest-dose imaging procedures in healthcare. Modern dental technology, combined with strict safety standards and protective equipment, ensures that radiation exposure remains minimal while still providing valuable diagnostic information.
How much radiation exposure comes from dental X-rays?
The amount of radiation from dental X-rays is extremely small compared to everyday exposure. In fact, a routine dental X-ray often exposes you to less radiation than you receive naturally in a single day. Even panoramic X-rays expose patients to far less radiation than medical scans like CT scans or long airplane flights.
What safety measures are used during dental X-rays?
Dental offices follow strict state and federal regulations to limit radiation exposure. Trained professionals operate the equipment, and protective shields or lead bibs are provided to patients for additional safety. These measures ensure that X-rays are taken only when necessary and always within safe exposure limits.
What should patients tell their dentist before getting X-rays?
Patients should inform their dentist about any recent medical imaging, existing medical conditions, or concerns about radiation exposure. Sharing medical history helps the dental team determine whether new X-rays are needed. Open communication ensures a personalized and safe approach to diagnosis and treatment.
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