Overcoming the fear of Dental X-rays

Many people are concerned about the radiation emitted from dental X-rays during routine Dental Health Checks. X-rays are important to enable dentists to diagnose issues that cannot be seen during a visual examination. In this article, we will try to explore the roots of this fear and offer ways to overcome it.

Let us explore some of the common concerns:

Misconception about the high radiation levels:

Many people believe that dental X-rays emit high levels of radiation compared to larger X-ray machines such as CT scans. However, modern dental X-rays especially digital ones emit extremely low radiation levels compared to the natural radiation we are exposed to in our normal day-to-day life.
Did you know that Bananas are naturally occurring radioactive food due to their elevated levels of potassium? A fraction of potassium is radioactive and radiation is measured in millisieverts. One banana is equivalent to 0.005 millisieverts of radiation (Lauren Godshall, RDH, Oct 24,2024).

Fear of Cumulative effects:

Some patients worry about repeated X-rays over their lifetime which may increase their risk of cancer. Dental X-rays only contribute a minuscule amount to overall exposure to radiation. For example, a single intraoral bitewing x-ray exposes the person to less radiation than a short plane flight of 2 hours’ duration. 1400 periapical dental x-rays are the same as 1200 hours of flying time (Norman Medina DDS, February 2013). So, if you have 4 dental x-rays at the dental practice yearly, it is less radiation than you would get flying from London Heathrow to Bangkok Thailand.

How to overcome the fear of dental X-rays?

Educate yourself

Knowledge is the most effective way to combat fear. Understanding that dental x-rays are safe and emit minimal radiation can help wase concerns. Dentists and Hygienists are excellent sources of information, so don’t hesitate to ask questions about the procedure and its safety.

Know the benefits

Dental x-rays are critical for identifying problems like cavities, gum disease and early infections which could be invasive in the future. Weighing the small risk of radiation exposure against the potential benefits can help put things into perspective.

Trust Modern Technology

Advances in Dental technology have significantly reduced radiation exposure from dental x-rays. Nowadays, digital X-rays emit 90% less radiation than conventional film-based X-rays.

Practice relaxation techniques

If you have general anxiety about dental visits, try deep breathing or listening to music during dental appointments which can help.

Focus on preventive care

Marinating good oral Hygiene and regular visit to your dentist can reduce the frequent need of dental x-rays and treatment.

Conclusion

Fear of Radiation from dental x-rays is understandable but modern dental x-rays are safe, highly regulated, and crucial to help diagnose and maintain good oral health. Remember, the small controlled exposure of a dental X-ray is worth it for the long-term benefits of a healthy smile.