Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Most dentists take X-rays as part of your yearly teeth cleaning and dental exam to get a clearer view of your teeth and jawbone and to check for cavities, decay, and other issues. Due to the fact that X-rays utilize a form of radiation, some patients feel nervous or concerned about getting them.

If you have concerns about getting dental X-rays done, you should speak to your Plantation dentist beforehand. Understanding how the technology works can help put your mind at ease, so your dentist should explain to you what an X-ray is and whether or not there is any risk to your health and wellness.

Dental X-Rays & Radiation

X-rays are safe for the majority of the population. During the process, your body is exposed to very small amounts of ionizing radiation. The main concern patients have regarding dental X-rays is that ionizing radiation has been linked to cancer. However, the degree of exposure is so small that there is no reason to worry. Everyone is exposed to tiny amounts of radiation just by going about their daily lives, and the amount of radiation you may receive from an X-ray is only a small fraction of your total exposure.

How to Prepare for an X-Ray

Your Tamarac dentist will take precautions to reduce the amount of radiation your body is exposed to during the X-ray. He/she will place an apron over the shoulders and torso to prevent any radiation from reaching your vital organs. When working with children, dentists typically use an even smaller dosage of radiation. Children have a higher cancer risk from radiation than adults, so the American Dental Association encourages dentists to limit the amount of exposure pediatric patients have during X-rays.

X-Rays & Pregnancy

Although dental X-rays are safe for most patients, one possible exception is during pregnancy. Many experts and medical associations state that the chances of the uterus being exposed to radiation during a dental exam are very slim. However, some dentists suggest waiting until after pregnancy to undergo a dental X-ray unless the patient has a concern that requires immediate action. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, let your dentist know before you receive an X-ray.

Schedule an Appointment

While mouth X-rays do expose your body to minimal amounts of radiation, the exposure is so small that it poses virtually no medical risk. Dentists, doctors, and other medical experts all agree that X-rays are safe and important for adults and for children. If you have any questions or concerns regarding X-rays or other dental procedures, call our Plantation dentist or Tamarac dentist office during regular hours.

June 13, 2021