Dental X-rays are a standard tool in modern dentistry, helping dentists identify issues that fall beyond the scope of a routine dental exam. However, the low levels of radiation used in dental X-rays may nonetheless leave people wondering if dental X-rays are safe.
The answer is yes, dental X-rays are generally safe. To minimize the amount of radiation you’re exposed to during dental X-rays, your dentist will make sure to use protective equipment and order dental X-rays only when necessary.
What Are Dental X-Rays and Why Are They Important?
Dental X-rays use low radiation levels to capture images of your teeth, gums, and jaw. These images are used to detect problems that aren’t visible during a regular check-up. Common uses include identifying cavities, monitoring bone health, assessing tooth alignment, and detecting abscesses or tumours.
A few examples of the benefits of dental X-rays include:
- Spotting cavities early: X-rays can catch decay in its earliest stages before it’s visible to the naked eye.
- Planning treatments: Whether you need braces, implants, or a root canal, X-rays provide vital details for precise treatment planning.
- Preventing future problems: X-rays track shifts in your oral health over time, allowing early intervention for issues like impacted teeth or bone loss.
How Often Should I Get Dental X-Rays?
Most people don’t need dental X-rays every time they see the dentist. Health Canada recommends dental X-rays only if a regular clinical examination indicates they are needed, or if X-rays would help diagnose or monitor dental conditions and treatments. However, the recommended frequency depends on a person’s specific dental needs, health, and risk of developing cavities or gum disease.
If you have good oral hygiene and no history of dental issues, you may only need X-rays every 2–3 years. Conversely, people prone to cavities, gum disease, or other oral conditions may require X-rays every 6–12 months.
Your dentist will determine your X-ray schedule based on your needs and oral health history.
What Types of Dental X-Rays Are There?
Different types of dental X-rays are available depending on what your dentist needs to evaluate. Some X-rays are better at revealing cavities, while others are used to find dental abnormalities.
1. Bitewing X-rays
These are commonly used to check for cavities between teeth. You bite down on a special “wing” device while the X-ray captures detailed images.
2. Periapical X-rays
These focus on one or two teeth at a time, but penetrate deeper into the tooth, showing the entire structure from crown to root and including the surrounding bone.
3. Panoramic X-rays
Used to take a broad view of your entire mouth, including all teeth, your jaw, and sinuses—helpful for planning orthodontic treatments or spotting abnormalities.
4. Occlusal X-rays
These provide wider images of the roof or floor of the mouth and are often used to see if teeth are developing properly in children.
How Safe Are Dental X-Rays?
It’s normal to be concerned about how safe dental X-rays are. While dental X-rays are safe, certain aspects such as the type of X-ray or equipment used can raise or lower your radiation exposure.
Radiation Levels
Dental X-rays use very low doses of radiation compared to other medical imaging. Having four Bitewing X-rays exposes you to roughly the same amount of radiation that you’re typically exposed to on a normal day.
Some X-rays, such as a Field of View (FOV) X-rays will use higher rates of radiation, with one FOV X-ray exposing you to the same amount of radiation you’re normally exposed to in a month. X-rays with higher levels of radiation exposure should only be used if necessary to diagnose and treat dental conditions.
Equipment & Protective Measures
Dentists take every precaution to ensure your safety. For example:
- Lead aprons and thyroid collars are provided during the procedure to shield sensitive parts of the body from radiation.
- Digital X-rays emit far less radiation than traditional methods, and they are now the standard in many clinics.
- Dentists are trained to use the “as low as reasonably achievable” (ALARA) principle, ensuring you’re only exposed to X-rays when necessary.
Are There People Who Shouldn’t Get Dental X-Rays?
While dental X-rays are generally safe, there are certain populations for whom dentists exercise extra caution:
- Pregnant Women
- Young Children
- People undergoing frequent medical imaging
Can I refuse a dental X-ray?
Yes, it’s your right to decline any procedure, but understand that doing so may limit your dentist’s ability to provide optimal care. Discuss your concerns with your dentist—they may be able to offer alternatives or adjust the frequency of X-rays.
The minimal risk posed by dental X-rays is far outweighed by the benefits they provide, especially when it comes to diagnosing and preventing oral health problems. Undetected conditions like severe decay, gum disease, or jawbone issues can lead to more invasive, costly treatments later on.
Feel Confident in Your Dental Care
Ultimately, when it comes to dental X-rays the benefits far outweigh the risks. At Arch Dental, our professional team of oral health providers will work with you and your oral needs to help you get to your most confident smile. Book an appointment with us today!
