X-RAYS

One of the most common questions that patients have regarding dental X-rays is “Why are X-rays needed in dentistry?”

There are many areas and structures in the oral cavity which we cannot check for disease or abnormalities solely by visual exam. Some of the things that a visual exam can miss include:

1. Interproximal decay (cavities occurring in between teeth)
2. Teeth infections in the jaw
3. Severity of gum disease
4. Pathologies in the jaw bone

Any of the above, if not picked up early can have serious consequences. The amazing thing is that PAIN or DISCOMFORT may not be present in the initial stages of all of the above.

Regarding radiation from dental X-ray, the following may be of interest.

Radiation dose is usually expressed in microsieverts (uSv)

Single dental X-ray: 7uSv
5 hour airline flight: 25uSv
Mammogram: 440 uSv
Average year watching TV: 10uSv
Recommended annual dose limit: 1000 uSv