Some dental and oral problems are hidden. They cannot be
seen with the naked eye. But they are still the issues which need to be
addressed because those hidden issue can lead to severe oral and overall health
conditions. One of the ways to detect such issues is to go for the dental x-rays. The benefit of dental x-rays is that they help diagnose the dental
issue with pinpoint accuracy.
With the help of dental x-ray, the dentist can see what’s
inside a tooth and what’s beneath the gums. X-rays used in dental offices use
extremely low amount of radiation but this radiation can add up with every
small dose. In total, it has the capacity of damaging the cells when teeth are
exposed against it several number of times. Having that said, it is extremely
essential to move ahead with caution.
Lower dose
One way to ensure safety of dental x-rays is to limit the
dose. In this scenario, the x-ray machine may be quite large but the x-rays
come out of the small cone. Hence, the radiation covers an area not more than 3
inches in diameter. X-ray machines are shielded well most of the times. Hence,
the amount of radiation is kept lower.
Better film
A better film is referred to as the one with better speed.
With better speed, less radiation is required to make a good print. With the
help of fastest film, dentists limit the amount of radiation and they still get
a good picture.
Digital radiography
Digital radiography is one of the most effective ways to get
the x-ray picture because it reduces the amount of radiation by 80% as compared
to other x-ray methods.
Film holder
In the past, patients needed to hold x-ray film while
getting examined. This technology is now the story of the past. Now, there are
holders which keep the film in place.
Limited use of X-rays
Dentists take dental x-rays only when they feel the strong
need to view inner part of the teeth and areas under the gums.
According to current guidelines, dental x-rays should be
utilized only when there is a suspected problem to be resolved. As a patient,
you need to make sure that dental x-rays are safer for you. For this purpose,
you have to ask your dentist when and why you or your children should use
dental x-rays.
