When visiting a dentist office for a routine check-up, your general dentistry team may request you take X-rays to diagnose certain oral health problems. There are many misconceptions surrounding the procedure and how it affects your overall health. If your dentist recommends X-rays and you’re apprehensive, here’s what you should know about the process. 

Understanding X-Rays When Visiting the Dentist Office

Is This Procedure Safe?

X-rays are widely used in both the health care and dental care fields as they provide digital images of the internal composition of your body. While taking these photographs does expose you to low levels of radiation, dental X-rays are considered very safe.

In fact, according to The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP), dental X-rays only account for 2.5% of the radiation dose one would receive from other imaging procedures, like CT scans. In addition, your dentist office will provide protective aprons to minimize your exposure. 

Why Do Dentists Need to Take X-Rays?

While your dentist can visually assess the external condition of your teeth and gums, often an X-ray is necessary to see what’s happening internally. By evaluating the images, they can see how the roots of your teeth look, the placement of your wisdom teeth that have yet to grow in, and they can better see decay and other issues so they can properly treat these conditions. 

C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry has been serving the greater Lorain, OH area, for over two decades. Led by Dr. Sfeir, a longtime resident of the community, this dentist office takes pride in offering top-notch oral care in a friendly, inviting environment. If you need teeth cleaning, X-Rays, or a complicated root canal, call their office today at (440) 960-5200 to schedule your first appointment. For more information on their commitment to putting even the most anxious patients at ease for optimal oral health, visit their website.