IMPORTANCE OF DENTAL X-RAYS

It is extremely important that oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease, infections and tumors are detected EARLY.  Digital Dental Radiographs (X-rays) can detect the earliest signs of dental and oral problems BEFORE they turn into serious concerns that can lead to tooth loss and advanced disease.  For example, most people do not realize that THE MAJORITY OF CAVITIES DO NOT HURT AT ALL UNTIL THEY GET REALLY REALLY BIG. With early detection, you can get the treatment you need before problems become much more serious.

WE ARE EXPOSED TO RADIATION EVERY DAY

We are exposed to radiation through a variety of sources that we come into contact with every day such as sunlight, the earth’s soil and certain foods. Even air travel is a source of radiation. While exposure to radiation isn’t desirable, THE SMALL AMOUNTS THAT YOU ARE EXPOSED TO IN DIGITAL DENTAL X-RAYS ARE NOT A CAUSE FOR CONCERN.

Compared to traditional x-rays, Digital X-rays emit 85% less radiation.  Also please note that at Highview Dental our digital x-ray machines are regularly inspected and certified to ensure that they emit only the absolute lowest dosage.  

A digital dental x-ray exposes a patient to 4 micro sieverts (a standard measurement unit used to measure radiation).  In contrast, your normal every-day environmental exposure is 10 micro sieverts and an airplane flight could provide an exposure level of 40 micro sieverts. See the chart below for additional exposures.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD DENTAL X-RAYS BE TAKEN?

At Highview Dental, x-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis and treatment. Their frequency depends on an individual’s dental health, signs of dental problems, age, and risk for oral disease.