Are traditional dental X-rays dangerous?
Even traditional (non-digital) X-rays are very safe. Dental X-rays do not have to penetrate through thick areas of tissue like medical X-rays. A “full series” of 18 exposures with high speed film delivers 40 times less radiation than a typical day of background radiation. How often should dental X-rays be taken? Between the teeth (bite-wing) X-rays should be taken every six to eighteen months depending on the patient´s needs and history. Full mouth X-ray series and/or panoramic images should be taken every 3 to 5 years, again depending on individual considerations. There is no hard and fast X-ray “standard of care”; however, most dentists will insist on following guidelines similar to those stated above in order to insure an adequate quality of preventive care for their patients. How can I see Digital Radiography in Action? If you are looking for a new dental office, ask the front office staff about the type of X-ray system that they utilize. Thousands of dental practices around the co