Do x-ray radiations have deleterious effects?

Dental x-rays are used by the dentists to evaluate decay, impacted teeth, pathology etc. X-rays are recommended by your dentist to track the advancement of problem/disease.

With the use of protective barriers & following principles of radiation safety, one can minimize the level of radiation exposure.

Protective barriers like lead aprons with thyroid collars for doctors as well as for patients should be used in the operatory, in order to reduce the radiation exposure. Also, the operator should stand behind the shield screen.

In order to minimize the exposure:

• Repetitive x-rays should be reduced.
• Radiographs should be taken only when mandatory.
• According to various studies, x-rays do not cause any harm in pregnant females, but to avoid any unnecessary risk, it is better not to opt for radiographs in pregnancy.

Dental x-rays have been shown to be the one with the lowest radiation. But, still precautions are considered mandatory to avoid unfavourable exposure.

Just like maintaining the oral hygiene, x-rays are considered to be of vital importance to your overall health, since radiographs are adjunct to the final conclusion of your problem. So, you should make a visit to your dentist at least twice a year.