Dental X-rays allow hygienists and dentists to look closer at teeth, specifically the root and inside the tooth. They also give us a view of cavities and other dental issues that aren’t detectable with the naked eye. They’re in every dental office and patients often get their radiography in dental exams at least once yearly.
Do you know the last time you had your dental X-rays taken? Most get them once or twice yearly at one of their biannual exams. However, some people forego dental x-rays for financial or health reasons. Others opt out of dental X-rays because of fear of radiation exposure in dentistry and myths they’ve heard about. There are many dental X-ray misconceptions and we’re here to debunk myths about dental X-rays and to share their importance and what you can expect during your next exam with dental X-rays.
Common Myths About Dental X-Rays
At Rhoades Family Dentistry, we’ve heard plenty of myths that have concerned many of our patients and we’re always happy to debunk them to provide the best dental care possible. Below are some common myths and facts about dental X-rays to help ease your mind:
Myth: Dental X-Rays aren’t Safe for Children
Fact: Dental X-rays are Safe for Children of All Ages
For decades a myth that children are in danger from dental x-rays has existed. While dental X-rays can expose patients to radiation, there are safety measures all of us at Rhoades Family Dentistry take to keep children—and all patients—safe with limited exposure. Decades ago the safety of dental X-rays was questionable, but technology has advanced greatly, making it safe for children. Modern dental X-ray machines emit 90% less radiation than technology decades ago.
Children wear a vest over their chests to protect them from unnecessary exposure to other body parts. We can pinpoint the imagery to be just their teeth to avoid overexposure. We also only take X-rays when necessary, no more than needed to limit exposure. We only take dental X-rays on children periodically or when they’re at a higher risk of developing oral health issues or poor dental hygiene to ensure they don’t have cavities or other concerns.
Myth: Insurance Won’t Cover Dental X-Rays
Fact: Most Insurance Policies Cover Dental X-Ray Costs
Every dental insurance policy differs from one another, but most will cover preventative dental X-rays. For years people have declined dental X-rays in fear they’ll receive a whopping bill in the mail that they’re fully responsible for. However, most dental insurance plans will cover the costs associated with dental X-rays.
Myth: Dental X-rays are Unsafe for Nursing Mothers
Fact: Dental X-Rays are Safe for Nursing Mothers
As a family-owned and operated dental clinic, we understand the importance of family, especially nursing mothers. While we don’t have pregnant women undergo dental X-rays until after they’ve delivered their baby, dental X-rays are safe for nursing mothers. No research suggests dental X-rays impact breast milk when the mother is protected during the X-ray process. We provide vests that protect your chest from exposure and only take images of your teeth, so radiation exposure in dentistry is limited.
Benefits of Dental X-Rays
The benefits of dental X-rays far outweigh the limited risks. Below are some benefits of dental X-rays:
X-Rays Detect Early Issues
Did you know that dental X-rays do more than show the roots of teeth? They can detect the tiniest of cavities, helping prevent infections, bone loss, abscesses, and issues that may cause a patient to develop gum disease or a root canal.
X-Rays Help Determine Treatment
Because dental X-rays can detect issues that aren’t detectable with the naked eye, they can help dental professionals determine the best course of treatment. The imagery gives dentists a closer look at an issue, allowing them to determine the appropriate treatment for each patient.
X-rays help with Proper Diagnoses
Radiography in dental exams can help with proper diagnoses, ensuring dentists aren’t misdiagnosing a dental issue. With dental X-rays, we can correctly diagnose periodontal disease, cavities, and more.
Instant Imagery
Unlike other medical testing and procedures to determine a diagnosis, dental X-rays provide instant imagery and results, never taking days or weeks to get the results. As a result, we can provide early treatment and patients can get answers to concerns quickly.
What to Expect During Dental X-Rays
Still uneasy about getting dental X-rays? We’re here to ease your mind and make you more comfortable for future dental X-rays. Below is what you can expect during the dental X-ray process here at Rhoades Family Dentistry:
- Before we begin, we’ll ask women if they’re pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant to determine if we need to reschedule their X-rays.
- A hygienist will give you a vest or apron before taking your X-rays to protect you from radiation exposure.
- Before we take the images, we ask that you remain completely still to ensure we don’t need to repeat the X-ray.
- During the X-ray process, a hygienist will take X-rays, including panoramic, bitewing, and more.
- Your X-rays are ready immediately and our dentists will review the imagery to determine if there are any dental concerns and necessary treatments.
Our dental X-ray process is painless and quick, taking just minutes to complete.
Trust Rhoades Family Dentistry with your Dental Care and Dental X-rays
Whether you’re due for a cleaning or dental X-rays, or have oral health concerns, trust Rhoades Family Dentistry for your dental care. We provide all dental services and treatments including general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, emergency dentistry, dental implants, and more. We can help you maintain your oral health by scheduling a cleaning, preventative maintenance, and cavity prevention.
If you need dental care for the entire family, Rhoades Family Dentistry would love to be your family dentist! We’re family-owned and operated with a team of dedicated professionals who are members of the American Dental Association, American Association of Pediatric Dentistry, and many other dental associations. Our staff has undergone extensive training to provide all our patients with the best dental care.
Book an appointment today by scrolling up and clicking “BOOK AN APPOINTMENT” on the top left of your screen or by calling (913) 782-8900. We look forward to serving you by providing excellent dental care and giving your family healthy holiday smiles!
