Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
Yes — dental X-rays are considered very safe. The amount of radiation used in dental X-rays is extremely small, especially with modern digital technology. The diagnostic benefit far outweighs the minimal radiation risk.
Dental X-Ray Radiation Levels
A full set of dental X-rays (18 images) exposes a patient to approximately 0.005 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation using digital technology. To put this in perspective, you receive more radiation from a cross-country airplane flight or from background environmental radiation over a few days.
Ace Family Dental uses digital X-ray technology, which produces up to 80–90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays.
Who Should Be Cautious?
Pregnant patients should inform their dentist before X-rays are taken. The American College of Radiology and the American Dental Association agree that dental X-rays can be taken safely during pregnancy when necessary, especially in the second trimester. Protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are always used.
Frequently Asked Questions
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