X-rays have been an integral part of the dental appointment for many years. But for almost as long their use in dentistry has been hotly debated. A lot of folks feel that x-rays are unnecessary.
X-Rays: Worth the Risk?
X-rays are a two-edged sword. This technology allows you and your dentist a glimpse into your dental health that would be impossible, otherwise. Controlled doses of radiation will help you detect and treat problems before they get out of control.
How Much Radiation Exposure Should You Have?
Radiation is encountered in many everyday situations. It comes from the sun and we are exposed to traces of it in the soil and in household appliances – or even riding in an airplane. You don’t get much more radiation from routine dental x-rays. But large cumulative doses could lead to problems like cancer.
That’s why it’s so important to limit how much radiation you are exposed to when you have the choice.
Dental x-rays are necessary for diagnosing problems in the mouth. How many x-rays you have, though, should be kept to as few as possible. Each machine has adjustable settings according to a person’s size.
A few safety precautions help your dental team limit the amount of radiation you receive from x-rays:
Call your local dental office to find out their x-ray protocol. Ask about the steps they take to protect the patient from unnecessary radiation. Get the facts in advance because your next dental appointment may very likely include x-rays!
Posted on behalf of :
Prime Dental Care
417 Wall St
Princeton, NJ 08540
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