Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Anchorage Dentist Has the Answer
Getting dental x-rays periodically is an important part of maintaining your oral health. X-ray images allow your dentist to see inside each tooth and identify any minor damage or decay before it becomes a major problem. Since x-ray machines rely on a low dose of radiation to produce digital images, it’s natural to be wary of the procedure. Thanks to advancements in medical technology, though, there is no cause for concern. Here, the friendly team at the Libby Group explains why dental x-rays are safe.
Minimal Radiation
While it is true that x-ray machines produce radiation when creating diagnostic images, the dose is very low. In fact, of all the imaging procedures, x-rays expose patients to the second lowest dose of radiation, making them one of the safest diagnostic scans to undergo. Researchers have determined that you are actually exposed to more radiation when you take a flight from New York to Los Angeles than you are when getting dental x-rays.
Safety Precautions
Even though x-rays have been deemed perfectly safe, it is always wise to exercise caution when dealing with radiation. For this reason, your dentist will take certain steps to minimize your exposure when capturing dental x-rays. Such precautions include taking a single image of the mouth rather than multiple shots, using the lowest radiation setting possible, and providing lead coverings to protect more vulnerable parts of the body, like the torso.
If you’re overdue for a professional teeth cleaning and dental x-rays, turn to The Libby Group. This family dentistry practice is comprised of compassionate and knowledgeable professionals who are proud to provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages. Out of their practice in Anchorage, which has a warm and welcoming environment, they offer everything from teeth whitening to dental implants.
