You’ve probably been to the dentist for a checkup a few times in your life. They probably did a little cleaning, checked your teeth, and told you to come back in six months, right? That’s the traditional way that dentists operate, anyway. Nowadays, many dentists are turning to more advanced equipment to care for their patients. The dental X-ray machine is one of the most important pieces of technology any dentist can have. It will determine whether you have cavities, track your teeth’ growth, and do many other things. But are X-rays safe?
That’s what we are going to find out. Read on to learn more!
Dental X-Rays Overview
Dental X-rays are common and important diagnostic tools dentists use to assess oral health. If you want to learn more about what are dental exams and X-rays, you can check out here.
They are the type of radiograph that produces two-dimensional images of the teeth, supporting structures, and surrounding tissues. Also, they’re a safe and effective way to detect and treat problems early before they become more serious.
The Benefits and Risks of Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays have many benefits, including detecting cavities, identifying tooth decay, and determining gum disease. They are also useful in diagnosing oral cancer and measuring the depth of tooth sockets.
Dental X-rays are a type of ionizing radiation, a known carcinogen that can damage DNA and cause cancer. The risk of developing cancer from a single X-ray is very low, but the risk increases with the number of X-rays you take.
Dentists consider the risks very low, and the benefits of X-rays outweigh the risks.
Levels of Radiation Use
A recent study by the American Dental Association (ADA) discussed the issue of how safe dental X-rays are. The study found that the radiation dose levels used in dental X-rays are well within the levels recommended by the ADA. They recommended a dose of dental X-ray radiation, which emits less than 0.05 mSv of radiation.
When to Get Dental X-Rays
Dentists consider them safe, so it’s important to understand when they are necessary. Your dentist will recommend getting x-rays every one to two years. You may need them more often if you have a history of oral problems.
The Different Types of Dental X-Rays
There are types of dental X-rays that Dentists use for different purposes. A panoramic x-ray gives a panoramic view of your teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. This type of X-ray is often used to plan treatment, such as braces or dental implants.
A bitewing X-ray shows the top and bottom teeth in one view and is used to look for cavities between the teeth. A periapical X-ray shows the entire tooth, from the root to the chewing surface. This type of X-ray is to determine problems with the tooth, such as infection or abscesses.
Know More About How Dental X-Rays Are Safe for You
They are an important diagnostic tool that dentists use to spot potential problems. While there is a small amount of radiation exposure from dental X-rays, it is generally considered safe.
Talk to your dentist if you’re concerned about how dental X-rays are safe. They can explain the risks and benefits of different types of x-rays and help you make the best decision for your oral health.
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