According to the research, those who are frequently exposed to dental x-rays have double or triple chances of developing meningioma, a type of tumor that is not malignant. This has created a lot of speculation as a lot of Americans have increased dental visits and treatments that involve dental x-rays. The frequent use of bitewal x-rays have been found to increase the risk between 1.4 to 1.9 times than the rest. Bitewal x-rays are carried out to detect the severity of tooth decay and any bone loss due to gum diseases. Panorex x-rays are found to create the most damage, and has more than five times chances of causing meningioma in the future. These x-rays are not supposed to be carried out on children under 10 years of age. Dentists carry out panorex x-ray on an individual to detect bone abnormalities, presence of cysts, and infection on teeth. They offer an elaborate view of the teeth, jaw and the nasal area.
The American Dental Association does not recommend the use of dental x-rays for children. As x-rays are only required for diagnosis and special dental treatments, adults are recommended to take x-rays every two to three years and children every one to two years. Adults and children who were exposed to dental x-rays more than once every year are at 2.7 to 3 times increased risk of developing meningioma.
Be Informative
Sometimes dental x-rays become imperative in a dental surgery or treatment. They can reveal the problems that are not easily visible through naked eye. However, you can always ask your dentist why an x-ray is recommended for your dental treatment. Dental x-rays are to be performed only if there is a clinical justification and critical requirement to undertake a dental treatment. Ask if there is anything that can be done to eliminate the need of the x-ray. If the treatment is for your child's dental care, get clarifications as to why the x-ray is vital. Children under 10 years of age rarely require a dental x-ray. If your dentist still persists on having the x-ray done, change the dentist.
It is important for everyone to be well informed and knowledgeable on the subject and prevent any unwanted exposure to radiation. Prioritizing the safety of patients, dentists are updated with the latest technological advancements and are clearly advised on when and how an x-ray is to be performed. However, it is also the duty of every individual to identify any dental problems as early as possible thereby making treatments easier for the dentist.
The American Dental Association does not recommend the use of dental x-rays for children. As x-rays are only required for diagnosis and special dental treatments, adults are recommended to take x-rays every two to three years and children every one to two years. Adults and children who were exposed to dental x-rays more than once every year are at 2.7 to 3 times increased risk of developing meningioma.
Be Informative
Sometimes dental x-rays become imperative in a dental surgery or treatment. They can reveal the problems that are not easily visible through naked eye. However, you can always ask your dentist why an x-ray is recommended for your dental treatment. Dental x-rays are to be performed only if there is a clinical justification and critical requirement to undertake a dental treatment. Ask if there is anything that can be done to eliminate the need of the x-ray. If the treatment is for your child's dental care, get clarifications as to why the x-ray is vital. Children under 10 years of age rarely require a dental x-ray. If your dentist still persists on having the x-ray done, change the dentist.
It is important for everyone to be well informed and knowledgeable on the subject and prevent any unwanted exposure to radiation. Prioritizing the safety of patients, dentists are updated with the latest technological advancements and are clearly advised on when and how an x-ray is to be performed. However, it is also the duty of every individual to identify any dental problems as early as possible thereby making treatments easier for the dentist.
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