Dental X-Rays Won't Kill You!

I’ve often seen patients who are concerned with the amount of radiation they receive when having their dental x-rays taken. I’d like to take a moment to put things in perspective for you and discuss the benefits and risks of receiving x-rays while visiting your pediatric dentist Chicago.

Why should you even get dental x-rays?  If you thought they were only good for finding a break in your arm, you’re in for a surprise.  X-rays of your mouth, also known as dental radiographs, are capable of detecting several potential issues in your teeth and gums.  From unseen decay to ingrown molars, your dental x-rays can assist your orthodontist Chicago in diagnosing and correcting problem areas in your oral health.  Without them, any decay present below the gumline could remain undetected and run rampant through your system.  This could result in you needing a root canal or having teeth removed. Untreated decay could also amplify the effects of periodontal (gum) disease, which can spread infection to the rest of the body and has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Suffice it to say, dental x-rays can be pretty important.  Well, what about the ever-dreaded radiation?  This Chicago pediatric dentist, for one, can assure you that the risks are minimal.  Did you know that the average person is exposed to radiation every single day of their life?  It’s true!  Your body is constantly absorbing minute amounts of radiation from sources such as the food you eat, the ground beneath your feet, and even outer space.  Your typical dental x-ray only produces about half as much radiation as you are normally exposed to on any given day!  You are exposed to over twice as much radiation just by taking a plane ride across the country, not to mention those full body scans the bigger airports have been putting in.

As you can see, the risks are probably already lower than you originally thought.  But if you’ve ever had an x-ray, you are probably familiar with the heavy coverings that the technician drapes over your body surrounding the area being imaged.  You can probably find at least one lead collar or apron in the office of every Chicago orthodontist.  In addition, dentists will use only the shortest exposure time necessary to capture a good image.  These measures combined help block the rest of your body from being exposed to excess radiation.

Now that you know more about dental x-rays, I hope you see that the advantage far outweighs the danger.  Feel free to ask your pediatric dentist Chicago for more information on the risks and benefits of having dental x-rays taken.


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