4 common questions about X-rays :
When was the last time you went to the dentist appointment and wondered about the need for X-rays? Nowadays, people are more aware of the risks of X-rays exposure, so confronted with many questions about it, I have decided to share some common questions and answers.
1) What is the use of dental x-rays?
Dental X-rays help dentists visualize diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissue that cannot be seen with a simple oral exam. X-rays help the dentist find and treat dental problems early in their development such as; show areas of decay that may not be visible with an oral exam, especially small areas of decay between teeth or beneath an existing filling, reveal bone loss that accompanies gum disease, reveal abscess, assist in the preparation of tooth implants, braces, dentures etc.
2) How Often Should Teeth Be X-Rayed?
The frequency of getting X-rays of your teeth often depends on your medical and dental history and current condition. Some people may need X-rays as often as every six months; others with no recent dental or gum disease and who visit their dentist regularly may get X-rays only every couple of years. If you are a new patient, your dentist may take X-rays as part of the initial exam and to establish a baseline record from which to compare changes that may occur over time. Sometimes, dentists use X-rays during procedures such as root canals, complex extractions, crown and bridge etc. The dentist will then explain the necessity in advance. In the following link you would be able to learn about X-rays guidelines.
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-x-rays-when-get-them
3) How Safe Are Dental X-Rays?
Exposure to all sources of radiation including the sun, minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, and dental X-rays can damage the body's tissues and cells and can lead to the development of cancer in some instances. Fortunately, the dose of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of dental X-rays is extremely small.
Recently, dental X- rays were linked to thyroid gland tumors, brain tumors etc…So far, no real link was found to thyroid gland tumor, because radiation dose is very small however, some link was found to brain tumor.
http://www.webmd.com/brain/news/20120410/dental-x-rays-linked-brain-tumors
http://hps.org/hpspublications/articles/dentaldoses.html
In order to decrease the incident both dentists and patients should take responsibility: The dentist should check the patient’s mouth and dental history add some questions that will all together help come to a conclusion of the need for X-rays, what kind (bitewings, panoramic, status..) and how many. Dentists are guided to use protective lead apron and collar. Dentists are asked to do routine check-up to the X-rays machine like any other device, to use fast films and if possible digital X-rays.
The patient’s responsibility is to come to regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments that would help minimizing future problems by keeping teeth healthy. To follow post treatment and dental home care instructions. To keep updated as for new guidelines etc…
4) What about pregnant women?
Routine x-rays, usually taken during annual exams, can usually be postponed until after the birth. X-rays are necessary to perform many dental procedures, especially emergencies. According to the American College of Radiology, no single diagnostic X-ray has a radiation dose significant enough to cause adverse effects in a developing embryo or fetus. Fetal organ development occurs during the first trimester; it is best to avoid all potential risks at this time if possible. If non-emergency dental work is needed during the third trimester, it is usually postponed until after the birth.
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-care-pregnancy
http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/dentalwork.html
Yours with a smile, Dr. Varda
ד"ר ורדה צ'יוקליה-שור 