Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Concerns About Radiation Exposure

Q: Are Dental X-Rays Safe? Concerns About Radiation Exposure

Hello： 1. <br>The dose of a single periapical radiograph is very small, so there is no need to worry excessively! 2. <br>It is recommended to return to the original clinic; if the dentist is unwilling to manage the case, please ask them to issue a referral to a medical center!

X-ray radiation issues?

When I went to the dentist, the doctor placed the X-ray machine directly against my face.
I remember that in other clinics, there was usually some distance from the face.
This time, it was pressed right against my face and even pulled on my lower eyelid.
I'm concerned if being this close could expose my face and eyes to too much radiation.
I have a deep cavity in my tooth, and even after the clinic filled it, I was still in pain a month later.
When I went back, the dentist just told me to wait and observe.
Another clinic said that I could still get the filling covered by insurance within three months, but I am still experiencing persistent pain.

Judy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/28

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: 1.
The dose of a single periapical radiograph is very small, so there is no need to worry excessively! 2.
It is recommended to return to the original clinic; if the dentist is unwilling to manage the case, please ask them to issue a referral to a medical center!

Reply Date: 2022/04/28

More Info

When it comes to dental X-rays, many patients express concerns about radiation exposure, especially when the X-ray machine is positioned very close to the face. It's important to understand the safety measures in place and the actual risks associated with dental X-rays.

Firstly, dental X-rays are considered safe and are a crucial diagnostic tool in dentistry. The amount of radiation exposure from a single dental X-ray is quite low. For instance, a full mouth series of X-rays typically exposes a patient to about 0.02 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation. To put this into perspective, this amount is equivalent to the natural background radiation a person would receive in just a few days. The annual safe limit for radiation exposure for the general public is around 1 mSv, which means that dental X-rays, when used judiciously, do not significantly contribute to this limit.

Regarding your concern about the X-ray machine being very close to your face, it is standard practice for dental X-rays to be taken at a close range to ensure the clarity and quality of the images. The machine is designed to focus the radiation on the specific area being examined, which minimizes exposure to surrounding tissues. Additionally, dental offices typically employ protective measures, such as lead aprons and thyroid collars, to shield other parts of the body from unnecessary radiation exposure. If you were not provided with these protective measures, it is advisable to discuss this with your dentist for future visits.

As for your ongoing dental pain, it is essential to address this with your dentist. If you have had a filling done and are still experiencing discomfort, it could indicate that the cavity was deeper than initially assessed, or there may be other underlying issues such as nerve involvement or an infection. It is crucial to communicate your symptoms clearly to your dentist and seek a thorough examination. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, it is entirely reasonable to seek a second opinion from another dental professional.

In summary, dental X-rays are safe when performed correctly, and the radiation exposure is minimal compared to other sources of radiation in our environment. If you have concerns about the proximity of the X-ray machine or the protective measures taken, it is important to voice these concerns with your dental care provider. Additionally, persistent pain after a dental procedure should not be ignored, and further evaluation may be necessary to ensure proper treatment and resolution of your symptoms. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare providers to ensure your health and safety.

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