Are dental X-rays safe, and how often should they be taken?

Dental X-rays, also known as dental radiographs, are generally considered safe and valuable tools for diagnosing and treating dental conditions. The amount of radiation exposure from dental X-rays is relatively low, and advancements in technology have further minimized the radiation dose. Additionally, dental professionals take precautions to ensure that patients are exposed to the least amount of radiation necessary to obtain the required diagnostic information.

The safety of dental X-rays is also contingent on factors such as the patient's age, individual health history, and the specific dental issue being addressed. Pregnant women, for example, should avoid routine X-rays, although if an urgent dental problem arises, the dentist may use a lead apron and thyroid collar to minimize exposure.

To put it into perspective, a typical dental X-ray delivers roughly 0.005 to 0.01 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation. The millisievert is a unit used to measure the amount of ionizing radiation absorbed by the body. On average, a commercial flight may expose passengers to approximately 0.003 to 0.005 millisieverts (mSv) of cosmic radiation per hour of flight time. So, a dental xray is equivalent to about a 2-3 hour flight.

How often dental X-rays should be taken depends on individual factors and the patient's oral health condition:

1. New Patients: On your first visit to Freo Dental, we often take a set of X-rays to establish a baseline for your dental health and to detect any hidden issues.
2. Regular Check-ups: For most adults with good oral health, a set of bitewing X-rays (which show the back teeth) is typically taken once every 2 years during regular check-ups.
3. High-Risk Patients: If you are prone to dental issues or have a history of cavities or gum disease, your dentist may recommend more frequent X-rays to monitor your oral health more closely.
4. Children: Children often require more frequent X-rays as their teeth and jaws are still developing. The dentist will determine the appropriate schedule based on the child's individual needs.
5. Orthodontic Treatment: If you're undergoing orthodontic treatment, X-rays are used to assess the progress and position of teeth.
6. Dental Emergencies: X-rays may be necessary for diagnosing and treating dental emergencies, such as tooth fractures or infections.

It's essential to communicate openly with Dr Kris about your dental history and any concerns you may have about X-ray exposure. All dentists carefully consider the need for X-rays based on their clinical judgment and use them responsibly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

If you're worried about radiation exposure, Dr Kris can provide you with a lead apron and thyroid collar to protect other parts of your body during the X-ray procedure. Remember that the benefits of dental X-rays in detecting and preventing dental issues often outweigh the minimal risk associated with the radiation exposure.