Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

Nov 10, 2021
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re you on the fence about getting dental X-rays at your Sewell Dentist? Here's what you need to know about the safety of these X-rays.

Did you know that, even though dental X-rays use radiation, they are not harmful to your health? You might be wondering how anything involving radiation can be harmless, however, this is what this article aims to discuss. 


When visiting a Sewell dentist, you may need a dental X-ray for a variety of reasons. In fact, not getting an X-ray on your teeth can be more harmful to you in the long run. This is because of how helpful these X-rays can be when it comes to identifying important dental problems. 



If you plan on visiting a dentist in Sewell, NJ, and are considering getting an X-ray, be sure to read this article first. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of how these X-rays work and how they might (or might not) affect your body. To start off, let's take a closer look at what dental X-rays are as a whole. 

What Are Dental X-Rays?

with an image of your teeth that cannot be easily obtained otherwise. This is because X-rays are able to visualize the interior of your teeth as well as your gums. 

This type of visualization is important if you have problems such as cavities or tooth decay. With cavities and tooth decay, especially in the early stages, you can only see so much when looking at the surface of the teeth. However, when using an X-ray, you can see how serious the problem might be. 

For example, your Sewell NJ dentist might be able to see how deep your cavities go into your teeth or how much your tooth decay has progressed. X-rays are also important for visualizing wisdom teeth. 

Often, wisdom teeth do not erupt properly. Instead, they may grow into your molars instead of erupting through your gums. This condition is known as having impacted teeth. 

When this happens, you can experience pain as your wisdom teeth attempt to grow against your other teeth. However, you usually cannot see this by simply looking inside your mouth. X-rays, on the other hand, would be able to give a clear view of your impacted wisdom teeth inside your jaw. 

With this visualization, impacted wisdom teeth, as well as other dental problems, can receive treatment much more conveniently. If you are still worried about the presence of radiation when getting an X-ray, you may have mixed feelings. However, it is important to know that, as long as you choose the best dentist in Sewell, NJ, there should be no danger associated with receiving X-rays. 

How might X-rays be harmless, you ask? Let's take a closer look at that next. 

Understanding Dental X-Rays

More likely than not, you will need to visit the dental office in Sewell, NJ, about once every year to receive a dental X-ray. This is so your dentist can keep track of your dental health and how it changes every year. Some people, especially children, may need to have more frequent X-rays depending on the state of their dental health. 


The reason why dental X-rays carry so little risk is that very low amounts of radiation are necessary. Even so, as an extra precaution, your body will usually be protected by a bib made of lead placed over your chest and abdomen. This will protect your internal organs from any radiation. 


If you have any thyroid conditions, make sure you alert your dentist. Those with thyroid conditions may need to wear a lead collar around their neck in order to protect themselves from radiation. 



While dental X-rays are safe, it is recommended that pregnant women should always avoid them. This is because any amount of radiation is not safe for a developing fetus and the risk of birth defects can increase when exposed to radiation. Beyond the exception of pregnancy, any dentist, Sewell, NJ, will tell you that you have nothing to worry about when it comes to dental X-rays. 

What to Expect From Dental X-Rays

If you're wondering, "what should I expect when getting an X-ray from a dentist near me?" you'll find your answer if you keep reading. You'll be relieved to know that you won't need to go through any special preparation before going to get a dental X-ray.


As before any dental appointment, be sure you have flossed and brushed your teeth beforehand. This is important as it will ensure that no food particles are in the way of your X-ray. 


When you arrive at your dentist 08080 for your dental X-ray, you will sit down in the dental chair and you will have a lead bib placed over your body. Your dentist will then bring out the machine used to conduct the X-ray. This X-ray machine will rest beside your head in order to get a clear visualization of your mouth. 


Your dentist might need to leave the room a few times, but it is important for you to remain completely still in order for the X-ray to work correctly. After the X-ray, the visuals will be ready almost immediately. Your dentist will then be able to interpret them and check if you have any cavities or signs of tooth decay. 



Then, if you do have any dental problems, your dentist will discuss treatment options with you and your dental issues will be dealt with accordingly. 

What You Need to Know About Dental X-Rays

By the end of this article, you know that when you receive dental X-rays from your Sewell dentist, you have nothing to worry about. In fact, regular dental X-rays are important for the maintenance of your dental health. 



To learn more, explore our website.

Now that you know, write these questions down, bookmark this page, or print this guide out. Then, discuss these points with your dentist to learn how to take better care of your teeth. 


Don't wait to get the competent dental care you need. Call (856) 589-7789 now or contact Sewell Dental Designs here to make an appointment or speak to a dental professional.

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