You may often need to visit the dentist for dental X-rays. These X-rays can help the dentist better understand hidden areas, such as beneath your teeth’ gums, bone, and roots.
However, you may worry when you hear the word X-ray because you will be exposed to traditions. Your concern is genuine because we have heard about the many harmful effects of radiation.
You may also have a question in your mind: are dental X-rays Safe? But do you know they are very safe? Your exposure to radiation with a single dental X-ray is much less than what you encounter for other common sources.
Let’s read and explore the facts and break down the safety of dental X-rays.
How Safe Are the Radiation Levels in X-rays?
Radiations are used in the X-ray, so exposure to high traditions may cause some harmful effects. In the beginning of dental x-ray, there were some laps and professionals didn’t fully understand the risks.
Thanks to modern technology, radiation levels are well-developed and much safer nowadays. The radiation level has significantly reduced from the beginning.
However, to better understand it, we will compare its radiation level with that of some other common sources of exposure.
A single digital dental X-ray contains about 0.1 mrem of radiation, while four bitewing X-rays have about 0.4 mrem. Below is the chart of traditions from some other sources.
| Source | Radiation |
| Natural soil radiation | 35 mrem per year |
| A transcontinental flight | 2–4 mrem |
| Using natural gas for heating | 9 mrem per year |
| Smoking cigarettes | 1,300 mrem per year |
| Drinking water | 5 mrem per year |
Interestingly, one flight across the country exposes you to more radiation than a dental X-ray. Even eating ten bananas has the same radiation as one X-ray.
While dental X-rays do involve minimal radiation, their benefits far outweigh the risks. They help dentists spot issues with your enamel, gums, or tooth roots that can’t be seen otherwise.
Dental X-rays and Their Safety
Modern dental X-ray tools and techniques are designed to minimize radiation exposure and ensure safety.
Protective measures, like using lead aprons, help shield your body, while leaded thyroid collars provide extra protection for your thyroid. These safety steps are especially important for people who need to be more cautious about radiation, such as pregnant women.
With these advancements, dental X-rays are not only practical but also very safe for patients.
What are the Possible Risks of Dental X-rays?
No doubt, dental X-rays use radiation, and the exposure is extremely low, making them safe for both adults and children. Dentists who use digital X-rays further reduce the radiation risk compared to traditional film methods.
Protective measures, like wearing a lead bib over your chest, abdomen, and pelvic area, help shield vital organs from unnecessary radiation.
A thyroid collar can also be used, especially for individuals with thyroid conditions. Pregnant women who require an X-ray are often provided with a lead bib for extra safety.
However, pregnant women or those who think they might be pregnant should avoid X-rays unless absolutely necessary. Always inform your dentist if you are pregnant, as radiation can harm a developing fetus. Safety should always come first.
Who Should Consider Getting a Dental X-ray?
Many people may need a dental X-ray, especially when their dentist needs to identify the cause of pain or assess the structure of their mouth for future dental work.
Dental X-rays can reveal issues that might be much worse than the small amount of radiation involved. Some of the problems an X-ray can detect include:
- Decay between teeth
- Changes in a root canal
- Bone loss
- Tumors or growths
- Infections between teeth and gums
Without X-rays, these issues can go unnoticed and lead to serious complications.
When it comes to dental health, catching problems early is always better. It’s easier, more affordable, and less painful to treat issues before they worsen.
Who Should Avoid Dental X-rays?
Advanced techniques and tools have made dental X-rays safer, but they may still not be suitable in certain conditions. Here are some major patient groups in which it is better to avoid dental X-rays.
Pregnant women should wait until after childbirth to have X-rays. This is to protect the developing fetus, as it’s more sensitive to radiation than adults. During pregnancy, cells and DNA change faster, making radiation riskier. However, it’s still important to have regular dental checkups. Just be sure to inform your dentist about your pregnancy.
Children are another group that requires special consideration. While there’s no completely safe level of radiation, it’s important to remember that radiation builds up over time. Children may be more at risk because their cells are smaller and divide more quickly. It’s a good idea to talk to your dentist to see if X-rays are necessary for your child.
What Are Some Alternatives to Dental X-ray Treatment?
There are a few options that can help detect dental issues without using X-rays. One such option is an intraoral camera. This tool uses high-intensity light and magnification to spot early cavities, even small ones.
Another method is dental trans-illumination, which shines a bright light next to the tooth. Since tooth enamel is crystal-like, this light helps reveal minor defects such as cavities, cracks, or other damage. This technique allows dentists to check your teeth with much less radiation exposure.
This method is especially helpful for children, as it reduces their exposure to X-rays while still detecting dental problems at the earliest stage. It’s a great way to keep their dental health in check without the need for frequent X-rays.
Visit Smile Cove Pediatric Dentistry For Safe Kids Dental X-Ray
Well, you know that X-rays can be harmful to your children. However, in some conditions, it becomes essential to know what to do. Surely, you will have to go with the dental X-ray. But, you may remain restless about your child’s health.
Do not worry; you can minimize this risk to almost zero if you choose a pediatric dentistry that uses the most advanced tools and expert professionals. If you are looking for us, we recommend Smile Cove Pediatric Dentistry for safe kids’ dental X-rays.
Why do we recommend them? Here are some good features that make your procedure worry-free.
- Certified pediatric dentists will perform your kid’s X-ray.
- Their dentists have years of experience in dealing with such cases.
- You will be warmly welcomed, and dedicated staff will remain with you until the process is completed.
- They offer high-quality services for every patient.
- Thousands of satisfied customers not only prefer for themselves but also recommend their services to others.
Final Thoughts
Dental X-rays are pretty safe and essential part of maintaining good oral health. The small amount of radiation used is carefully controlled, and modern technology has made the process even safer. Dentists only recommend X-rays when necessary and take every precaution to ensure your safety. So, the next time your dentist suggests taking X-rays, you can feel confident knowing that the benefits outweigh the risks. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist questions if you still have concerns. They’ll be happy to explain everything and help you feel more comfortable