Cookie Policy
Information on Dental
Radiographs (x-rays)
What are dental x-rays?
Dental x-rays are images of the bones, teeth and surrounding tissue in your mouth. They are used by your
dentist as an aid to help find and treat dental problems that may not be obvious from a visual examination
alone.
Why are dental x-rays needed?
Your dentist can look at the health of your teeth, mouth and jaws with an x-ray. Dental x-rays show tooth
decay, fractures of the teeth, bone loss, infections inside the tooth or bone and the position of any teeth
under the gum. They can also show other problems such as cysts, tumors and cancers.
Small x-rays are the most commonly used dental x-rays and show 2 to 3 teeth at a time. The film is placed
inside your mouth while the x-ray image is being taken.
Is there any risk with dental x-rays?
Yes, there is some risk. However, this risk is very small and should always be justified by the intended
benefits. Radiation is a general term that refers to the energy that can travel through the environment.
X-rays (medical radiation) are a type of radiation that can pass through the human body and this allows x-
rays to be used for medical purposes. The amount of medical radiation used in dental x-rays is so low that
the risk of any damage to the body is extremely small .
For example:
A small x-ray has approximately the same amount of radiation as 10 minutes sunbathing.
What are the specific risks of dental x-rays?
A person who has dental x-rays taken has a slightly increased risk of developing a cancer compared to a
person who does not have them done. The risk is very low. For example, when taking a small x-ray, it is
estimated that 1 person in 10 million will develop a cancer. The risk is slightly greater in children, but is still
very low. The benefit to you from taking a dental x-ray should always outweigh the risk, so they will only be
taken when necessary.
Who will take my dental x-rays?
Your x-rays will be taken by a healthcare professional who is licensed to take x-rays.
Important points to remember:
Any healthcare professional who is licensed to take dental x-rays has be trained to use the lowest amount
of radiation on the smallest possible area of your mouth.
Tell the person taking your x-ray if you:
- Are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant.
- Have had recent dental x-rays as this may avoid the need for new dental x-ray.