Some people do not want diagnostic x-rays because they have heard that the radiation is dangerous. They’re afraid of being “overexposed” to radiation. The fact is, dental x-rays pose very little danger and are the most valuable diagnostic tool we have.
Let’s break it down. The unit used to measure radiation exposure to biologic organism is called a rem. A rem is a large unit, so exposure to medical radiation is generally measured in millirems (mREM). The average dental x-ray delivers about 1 mREM per exposure. If you have a full mouth series done, that equals 18 mREM of exposure. In comparison, the average person in the US is exposed to about 360 mREM per year just from naturally occurring background sources. The reality is that it is very safe to have x-rays taken once a year.
The risk of NOT having x-rays taken far outweighs any “risk” of exposure to radiation. X-rays detect problems before they can be seen by the naked eye or even felt by the patient. Cavities. Infections. Cracks in teeth or restorations. If left undetected, all of these problems can lead to a costly restorative procedure or root canal therapy. The x-rays detect problems while they are small and easy to fix, resulting in dental treatment that is less expensive, more conservative and more successful in the long run.
Why wait until something hurts to have it treated? With diagnostic x-rays even the smallest problem can be quickly, comfortably and affordably taken care of.