Dental X-rays
 

Accurate images of teeth are essential for the detection of tooth decay, gum disease, infection and many other dental diseases. Most of these problems are difficult or even impossible to detect without an X-ray. An X-ray should be taken when advised by a dentist.

How X-rays Work

X-rays pass through the area to be evaluated, and a film or sensor on the other side of the tissue picks up the resulting pattern. This allows dentists to look at areas not visible to the human eye.

The Risks

Dental X-rays produce very low radiation exposure. With X-ray film becoming more sensitive and the machines constantly improving with technology, the low overall exposure time continues to decrease. Machines vary, but a full series of X-rays adds only as much radiation as you'd get in 19 days from natural sources such as sunlight, minerals in the soil, home appliances, and through the atmosphere from space. X-rays are recommended by the American Dental Association, and dentists use professional judgments to customize their recommendations for each patient. Dental X-rays represent a far smaller risk than letting undetected dental problems occur. Even if you've recently had X-rays taken of other parts of your body, a full-mouth set of X-rays doesn't add to the total amount of radiation in your system because X-ray radiation does not stay in the body.

X-rays Are Needed

On average, dentists request bitewing X-rays once a year. Reasons for X-rays include:

• They are important in detecting decay between teeth and diagnosing periodontal conditions.
• X-rays allow dentists to see if permanent teeth are developing normally, if they are in the correct position, and if bone tissue appears normal. Abnormalities can then be noted and treated.
• They can aid in proper cleaning of teeth. X-rays allow the dentist or hygienist to see beneath the gum line and clean teeth more thoroughly. Approximately every five to seven years, a complete set of X-rays should be taken. This can be accomplished by a panoramic X-ray or a series of periapical and bitewing X-rays.
• At times conditions can "sneak up" without any symptoms of pain, and X-rays can help in diagnosing unseen problems and maintaining good oral health.
• Infections can be found and treated before painful swelling occurs.
• Cysts and growths can be detected and treated before significant jaw damage occurs.

X-rays and Pregnancy

Although there is only a low risk to a developing fetus from dental X-rays, pregnant women should avoid X-rays unless it is absolutely necessary. For necessary X-rays, a pregnant woman should wear a lead apron to minimize exposure to radiation.

X-rays and Children

It is just as important for children to get dental X-rays as it is for adults. X-rays are used to detect decay before it reaches the nerve (which is closer to the tooth surface in children). Children often need X-rays more frequently than adults to help in diagnosing gum disease, view results from an injury, plan orthodontic treatment and aid in monitoring teeth under the gum line.

Researchers are continuing to develop ways to minimize exposure to X-rays. Techniques are being developed to scan teeth without using potentially harmful X-rays. Protect yourself by keeping track of when X-rays are performed to avoid duplication in the future.

X-rays remain a vital and necessary part of dental diagnosis. The ability of X-rays to aid your dentist in early diagnosis and detection of oral health problems far outweighs the potential risks of X-rays. Ask your dentist if you have questions or want further information on X-rays and new technologies.