Digital X-Rays
Dental radiographs (x-rays) are
essential, preventative,
diagnostic tools that provide
valuable information not visible
during a regular dental exam.
Dentists and dental hygienists
use this information to safely
and accurately detect hidden
dental abnormalities and
complete an accurate treatment
plan. Without x-rays, problem
areas may go undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
-
Abscesses or cysts
-
Bone loss
-
Cancerous and non-cancerous
tumors
-
Decay between the teeth
-
Developmental abnormalities
-
Poor tooth and root
positions
-
Problems inside a tooth or
below the gum line
Detecting and treating dental
problems at an early stage can
save you time, money,
unnecessary discomfort, and your
teeth!
Are dental x-rays safe?
We are all exposed to natural
radiation in our environment.
The amount of radiation exposure
from a full mouth series of
x-rays is equal to the amount a
person receives in a single day
from natural sources.
Dental x-rays produce a low
level of radiation and are
considered safe. Dentists take
necessary precautions to limit
the patient’s exposure to
radiation when taking dental
x-rays. These precautions
include using lead apron shields
to protect the body and using
modern, fast film that cuts down
the exposure time of each x-ray.
How often should dental
x-rays be taken?
The
need for dental x-rays depends
on each patient’s individual
dental health needs. Your
dentist and dental hygienist
will recommend necessary x-rays
based on the review of your
medical and dental history,
dental exam, signs and symptoms,
age consideration, and risk for
disease.
A full mouth series of dental
x-rays is recommended for new
patients. A full series is
usually good for three to five
years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays
of top and bottom teeth biting
together) are taken at recall
(check-up) visits and are
recommended once or twice a year
to detect new dental problems.
What if I'm pregnant and need
a dental radiograph examination?
A radiograph may be needed for
dental treatment or a dental
emergency that can’t wait until
after the baby is born.
Untreated dental infections can
pose a risk to the fetus, and
dental treatment may be
necessary to maintain the health
of the mother and child.
Radiation from dental X-rays is
extremely low. However, every
precaution is taken to minimize
radiation exposure. A leaded
apron minimizes exposure to the
abdomen and should be used when
any dental radiograph is taken.
A leaded thyroid collar can
protect the thyroid from
radiation, and should be used
whenever possible. The use of a
leaded thyroid collar is
strongly recommended for women
of childbearing age, pregnant
women and children. Dental
radiographs are not
contraindicated if one is trying
to become pregnant or is breast
feeding.
