Dental X-rays are essential when it comes to diagnosing specific problems with the mouth, teeth, and jaw bone area. X-rays can detect issues that even a thorough physical examination cannot. Unfortunately, because X-rays emit a specific dose of radiation, it sets off an alarm inside the heads of people—the safety of X-rays in both cases of adults and children is being questioned.
However, people must bear in mind that their dentists will never put them in harm. The best interest of the patient is always the goal of dental health professionals. The X-rays, especially the digital ones we use at Stamford Dental Spa, are safe and only contain a low dose of radiation. They are vital for diagnostic procedures. Unfortunately, there is so much misinformation about them.
The following are some myths surrounding X-rays. Let’s debunk the following:
- Dental x-rays are believed to cause cancer. This is simply not true. The risk of developing cancer from a single dental x-ray is negligible. It is the prolonged exposure to x-ray that increases the risk of cancer. No patient will be exposed to x-rays for hours at a time! Besides that, dental offices follow the guidelines and safety procedures needed.
- Another myth is that nursing mothers should not undergo a dental x-ray because it is believed that the radioactive particles will linger in the body. Some people believe that the radiation will be passed on from the mother to the child through breastfeeding. Nevertheless, this is not the case. Radiation will not linger in the body after being received. The small dose from the procedure is not even significant enough to cause harm to the body. The baby is safe and will not be exposed to radiation.
- As some people claim, dental x-rays are the most harmful type of x-ray because it is close to the brain. However, dental x-rays are incredibly targeted and will only focus on the area where an image needs to be generated. The brain will not be exposed to any radiation. Moreover, radiation risks do not depend on a specific area of the body and will depend on the number of radiation doses received over a period of time.
- Dental x-rays are believed to be unnecessary. People think that this is only a ploy for the dentists to charge more. Unbeknownst to their knowledge, x-rays are essential. It detects tooth decay and gum disease as well as revealing the alignment of the teeth below the gums. X-rays are also used for detecting bone issues in the jaw.
Detecting and diagnosing dental problems must be a safe procedure. If you worry about your safety, let us give you peace of mind. Here at Stamford Dental Spa, we offer Digital X-rays at Stamford, CT for safe diagnostic procedures. Find us at 124 Broad St, Stamford, CT 06901. Contact us to book an appointment.