Protecting Your Health with Dental X-Rays
There’s a solid reason why most of us have had dental X-rays taken at least once. This is a common diagnostic method used to assess our dental health and poses no threat to our health. According to the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, the quantity of radiation given out by these X-rays is comparable to the amount of background radiation we are exposed to daily.
When do Dental X-rays Become too Risky to Use?
Tooth decay, oral diseases, tooth infections, bone loss, and jaw fractures are just a few of the numerous oral disorders that may be diagnosed with dental X-rays. While dental X-rays pose little risk when conducted by standard procedures, there are a few exceptions. Variables, including your age, health, and the advice of medical specialists, might determine this.
Dental Radiography Subtypes
There are various varieties of dental X-rays, each intended to record a unique perspective of your oral cavity. Dental bitewings take a detailed picture of the crowns of your upper and lower teeth as you bite down. Your dentist will often use these X-rays to spot decay between your teeth. Your dentist may see the roof of your mouth, the floor of your mouth, and your upper and lower teeth on an occlusal X-ray.
It may be used to spot dental abnormalities such as missing teeth, impacted teeth, jaw fractures, oral pathology, and more. The panoramic X-ray equipment revolves 360 degrees around the patient’s head to get a full oral profile. Wisdom teeth, dental implant space, jaw anomalies, and orthodontic evaluations are some of the possible applications of this method. Periapical X-rays provide a close-up image of the dental crown, root, and bone around the tooth.
In What ways could Dental X-rays Pose Dangers?
Although dental X-rays include some radiation, the amount is so minute, and the procedure is so well monitored that it is widely believed to pose little to no danger of cancer.
Can a maximum number of dental X-rays be taken without causing harm?
- How many daily dental X-rays may be taken without risk?
- Amount of monthly dental X-rays considered safe.
- How many annual dental X-rays do you think are safe?
There is no hard and fast rule on how many dental X-rays you can have daily, month, or year. While taking X-rays, dental practitioners use the “ALARA” approach, which stands for “As Low as Reasonably Achievable,” to ensure that their patients are not overexposed.
When should X-rays not be Done?
Dental X-rays should be avoided, for example, if your doctor advises against it. Babies and expectant mothers may fall within this category. Nonetheless, the American Dental Association concludes dental X-rays are generally safe for pregnant patients (ADA). Patients often need reassurance that prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral conditions, including dental X-rays (with shielding of the abdomen and thyroid), is safe during pregnancy, as stated by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women.
What to do Before Getting Dental X-rays Taken
No special care must be taken before dental X-rays other than the typical routine of brushing and flossing. When it’s time for X-rays during your dental appointment, the hygienist will position the X-ray equipment to take pictures of your mouth while a lead vest or thyroid collar is placed over your chest.
Have your Teeth and Gums Checked by a Competent Dentist
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At Gentle Dentistry, our qualified dental experts can tend to any of your dental concerns. We’re here to make sure your grin stays as bright as ever. You may bring the whole family in for various dental treatments, including emergency care, aesthetic procedures, cavity fillings, and routine checkups and cleanings.
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