How safe are dental X-rays, and when do they become unsafe?
Even during routine cleanings, it is relatively common for digital x rays dentist Alderwood to offer to take dental x-rays. Digital teeth x rays Alderwood are a very common dental procedure, allowing dentists to see under the gums and even through the bone, roots of teeth, and enamel.But if you know anything about X-rays, you probably know that they use radiation to produce their results.
We see a fair amount of content about radiation hazards in movies (Godzilla anyone?), media, and online.
You may be wondering if digital teeth x rays Alderwood are safe. Simply put, “Yes, dental x-rays are safe and often very beneficial for oral health.”As for radiation, the amount you are exposed to is minimal.
The digital x rays dentist Alderwood knows that there are several sources of radiation in our daily life that expose us to more radiation over the course of a year than dental x-rays.
However, in some cases X-rays are not recommended.
To keep everything clear, Robinson Family and Cosmetic Dentistry explains how much radiation an x-ray contains, who needs a dental x-ray, and who doesn’t want to have a dental x-ray. How much radiation does an X-ray contain? When X-rays were first introduced, dentists and other professionals did not understand the dangers of repeated exposure to radiation, and appropriate safety features and procedures had not yet been developed.
However, as knowledge and technology have advanced, the amount of radiation used and the potential for patient exposure have decreased significantly.
Security and Radiography
Dental X-ray equipment and techniques have been improved over time to minimize radiation exposure.
All possible protective tactics are used to ensure patient safety. A lead apron minimizes exposure to the trunk, and a lead thyroid collar protects the thyroid.
These tools are especially important for patients, especially pregnant women, who need to be a little more careful with X-rays.
People who need dental x-rays
Many people may need dental x-rays. The dentist may need to diagnose the problem causing the pain or determine the structure of the mouth in order to perform dental treatment.
Some problems that can be detected with X-rays are far worse than the minute amounts of radiation they contain.
Problems that can be detected with a dental x-ray include:
Caries between teeth.
Root canal changes. bone loss
tumor or growth.
Infection between teeth and gums.
These are the kinds of problems that, without dental x-rays, can quietly progress and lead to much worse problems down the road.
When it comes to dental health, identifying these problems early is always easier, cheaper, and less painful.
People who should not take x-rays
Pregnant women.
If you are pregnant, you should avoid x-rays until after delivery. This is to protect the health of the fetus, who is more susceptible to radiation damage than adults.
The rate at which fetuses change at the cellular and DNA level makes X-rays particularly dangerous. You should visit the dentist regularly during pregnancy. Make sure dentist knows your condition.
Children.
There is no completely safe level of exposure and radiation accumulates over a lifetime. Children can be vulnerable because they are small and their cells divide rapidly. Please consult your dentist about this.
For more information about digital dental X-ray, visit Robinson Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Alderwood. We care about your oral health equally as we care about your safety. You may call us at 425-778-1164 or visit our website at www.robinson-dental.com for appointments and queries.