Digital Dental Imaging
More on Dental X-Rays
May 3, 2012 | 
Author A new study on dental x-rays has revealed new information on the safety of x-rays.
A recent study has associated meningioma, a common brain tumor, with receiving dental x-rays. The ADA has reviewed the study’s findings and it has found that the study has been affected by recall bias, which means that the patients were asked to recall information about dental x-rays taken earlier in their lives. It is also noted that some of these patients were exposed to x-rays many years ago when the levels of radiation used were much higher. Precautionary measures, however, have been taken by recommending that all dentist offices use an abdominal and thyroid shield. It has also been recommended that dentists use fast developing or digital x-rays.
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Oropharyngeal Cancer and HPV
HPV is identified as a leading cause of Oropharyngeal Cancer.
Recent research by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has shown that the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Oropharyngeal Cancer are related. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease that is one of the leading causes of cervical cancer. It is now also shown to be a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer in Europe and the United States. Oropharyngeal cancer is cancer of the mouth and pharynx. HPV now has a vaccine, which can help to decrease the risk of cervical cancer and also oropharyngeal cancer since the vaccine protects against the HPV strain that cause the majority of both cancers caused by HPV. The study also suggested that those who are found to have HPV in their tonsils and smoke have a greater likelihood of contracting oropharyngeal cancer than those who do not.
Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays are found to be safer than the sun.
Many people worry about the safety of dental x-rays and the radiation that they receive during the x-ray exposure time. The truth about dental x-rays is that they produce much less radiation than the sun does every year. In fact, bitewing x-rays, which are given every year, expose you to about 80 times less radiation than the sun. The x-rays given in the dental office are used to check the mouth for cavities, bone infections, periodontal disease, and abscesses. Many oral health issues cannot be detected by looking or feeling a person’s mouth. By the time your dentist can see or feel the problem, it is going to be a much larger problem than if the dentist had taken the x-ray and caught the problem early.
Why Do I need X-Rays?
Dental x-rays are important for diagnosis.
Not all decay is detected by a visual/tactile exam. X-rays provide information about your oral health, such as, cavities, gum diseases, abscesses and tumors. X-rays can prevent larger, restorative work and loss of dentition.
How much radiation am I exposed to with dental x-rays?
Dr. Abeyta and her team employ the A.L.A.R.A Principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable). This principle allows us to reduce the patient’s exposure to radiation by determining the type of x-ray, quality control procedures, x-ray positioning in adjunct with a lead apron with thyroid collar. Did you know that you can have approximately 10,000 x-rays before exceeding the maximum allowable dose? (Ask the Dentist- Windsor Star)
It is NOT in your best interest to refuse dental x-rays because of the very small amount of radiation you receive from them. To keep your oral health in the best condition it is recommended having dental x-rays once a year.