Are Dental X-Rays Safe? River Family Dentistry in Gold River Explains

Dental appointments always seem ordinary until the X-ray machine comes out. Suddenly, alarms sound.

Why do they need X-rays? Are dental X-rays bad for you?

Radiation instills fear, even for a common dental check-up. Some patients skip treatment just to avoid dental X-rays altogether.

Gold River’s dentists are getting these questions daily. Your safety, trust, and knowledge come first at all times.

This blog talks about the use of dental X-rays, their safety, and what makes our office unique.

What are Dental X-Rays and Why Does Your Child Need Them?

Dental x-rays provide clear images of teeth, roots, and bone to hold them in place. Bitewing x-rays are used to check for cavities between back teeth. Periapical x-rays show the entire tooth, root, and bone surrounding the tooth. Panoramic x-rays show the entire mouth, jaw, and sinuses.

X-rays in dentistry can be used to spot hidden issues such as decay and infection early on. They also show gum disease, bone loss, and cysts.

Without dental X-rays, many issues lie undetected until they become worse. A professional dentist in Gold River uses X-rays to direct treatment and avoid long-term problems. These photos save oral health before symptoms even occur.

X-rays guarantee no problem goes unseen or without being treated.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Knowing about Radiation Exposure

Radiation might sound scary. However, dental X-rays emit a very small amount. A bitewing X-ray emits less radiation than a one-hour flight in an airplane. One day of sunlight exposes you to more radiation than a single dental X-ray.

Digital x-rays of today release 80–90% less radiation than those used on older film x-rays. The technology also makes them quicker, safer, and more accurate. Dental X-rays focus tightly on small targets and limit unnecessary exposure.

Each image focuses on one problem and decreases radiation scatter. Dentists restrict use and follow stringent safety protocols.

More than they harm, dental X-rays help, especially in the detection of large issues. Used properly, dental X-rays remain one of the safest diagnostic technologies available.

Safety Protocols in Modern Dentistry

Gold River dentists practice strict protocols with every dental X-ray. Lead aprons protect your body, including reproductive and vital organs. Thyroid collars protect the neck from scattered radiation.

Digital X-rays significantly reduce exposure time and improve image quality. X-rays are only taken when necessary for diagnosis or treatment planning. Your dental history is examined by dentists before the recommendation of dental X-rays.

Our clinic upholds ADA and FDA protocols at all visits. Patient safety dictates every gesture throughout the X-ray procedure. Your comfort is just as crucial as clinical accuracy. We aim to deliver both, every visit, every patient.

Who Should Be Cautious of X-Rays?

Pregnant women need additional precautions with dental X-rays. Dentists remove unnecessary radiography of pregnancy, especially at early stages, out of the way. Children are only x-rayed when required. Lower doses and more shielding are used in dental X-rays for young patients.

Each case is reviewed before taking any X-ray image. Your history and needs create our safety plan. Every danger is taken into account by dentists before writing for dental X-rays.

Advantages in most situations generally surpass concerns. In doubt, we discuss options with each patient. Comfort, clarity, and communication direct our approach.

Dental X-rays are critical to early, precise dental diagnosis. Safety guides each step of your care plan. Feel free to question things at your next appointment.

Let’s talk about what works best for your comfort and health. Book your consultation today with us.