Dentists often request dental x-rays so they can see images of a tooth (or teeth) that are not visible to the human eye. X-rays can be a very useful tool for several reasons. But every time a dentist or dental hygienist asks if they can take a dental x-ray, you might wonder if the procedure is safe. Can a dental x-ray cause any potential health problem? Are there any dangers associated with a dental x-ray? Many dental patients have questions such about x-rays.(Portable X-ray Machine)

It’s important to stress that dental x-rays usually emit a very low level of radiation, and are therefore often described as a safe procedure by most dental professionals and others who work in the health industry.

Importance of Dental X-Rays
During a routine dental exam, you may be told that dental x-rays are in order. Most dentists like to have a copy of recent x-rays on file at all times. Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of routine x-rays. And, discount dental plans allow members to pay a reduced fee for x-rays when a dentist requests them. In most cases, routine dental x-rays are not prohibitively expensive.

Dental x-rays have the capability of assisting your dentist or dental hygienist with the following:

Discovering tooth decay that might not be visible by simply looking at a tooth
Alerting the dentist that you are experiencing bone loss
Helping the dentist with a diagnosis of an abscess
Locating permanent teeth that have not yet erupted from the gums (usually in children)
Checking the spacing of permanent teeth in preparation for orthodontic treatment

X-Rays Every 6 Months?
Most dental patients do not need dental x-rays taken more than once a year. However, your dentist might recommend more frequent dental x-rays if you are experiencing any type of tooth pain, if you are at a high risk of tooth decay, or if you have any oral health problems.

Safety Precautions and X-Rays
Although most dental x-rays emit a very low level of radiation, your dentist or dental hygienist should take precautions to protect your body when dental x-rays are being taken. Your dental office should place a lead apron and lead collar over your body prior to taking x-rays. The lead coverings help to protect you from any radiation exposure. If you are not provided with a lead apron to wear, make sure to ask for one before you have your next dental x-rays are taken.

The Safety of Dental X-Rays Has Improved Over The Years
Today’s dental x-ray machines are very different than machines used to take pictures of a person’s teeth several decades ago. Today’s x-ray machines emit a minimal amount of radiation, and many dentists say that the amount of radiation in dental x-rays pales in comparison to the amount of radiation exposure a person endures on a daily basis just by living a regular lifestyle.

If you have any questions or concerns about the safety of dental x-rays, make sure to have a discussion about this topic with your dentist during your next regular dental visit. Use your dental insurance benefits and visit your dentist for a check-up and professional dental cleaning two times a year. If you don’t have dental insurance, consider becoming a member of an affordable discount dental plan which provides substantial discounts for most dental services.(Dental Autoclave)