Oral Health Topics A–Z

X-rays (RadioGraphs)
 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
 
 How do dental X-rays work?
 How often should radiographs be taken?
 What are the benefits of a dental radiograph examination?
 How do dental X-rays compare to other sources of radiation?
 What if I'm pregnant and need a dental radiograph examination?

How do dental X-rays work?

When X-rays pass through your mouth during a dental exam, more X-rays are
absorbed by the denser parts (such as teeth and bone) than by soft tissues (such
as cheeks and gums) before striking the film. This creates an image called a
radiograph. Teeth appear lighter because fewer X-rays penetrate to reach the
film. Tooth decay, infections and signs of gum disease, including changes in
the bone and ligaments holding teeth in place, appear darker because of more
X-ray penetration. Dental restorations (fillings, crowns) may appear lighter or
darker, depending on the type of material used for the restoration. The
interpretation of these radiographs allows the dentist to safely and accurately
detect hidden abnormalities.

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How often should radiographs be taken?

How often X-rays (radiographs) should be taken depends on the patient's

individual health needs. It is important to recognize that just as each patient is
different form the next, so should the scheduling of X-ray exams be
individualized for each patient. Your dentist will review your history, examine
your mouth and then decide whether you need radiographs and what type. If
you are a new patient, the dentist may recommend radiographs to determine the
present status of the hidden areas of your mouth and to help analyze changes
that may occur later. If you have had recent radiographs at your previous
dentist, your new dentist may ask you to have the radiographs forwarded.

The schedule for needing radiographs at recall visits varies according to your
age, risk for disease and signs and symptoms. Recent films may be needed to
detect new cavities, or to determine the status of gum disease or for evaluation
of growth and development. Children may need X-rays more often than adults.
This is because their teeth and jaws are still developing and because their teeth
are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults.

 ADA, FDA Guide to Patient Selection for Dental Radiographs

What are the benefits of a dental radiograph examination?

Many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues cannot be seen when your
dentist examines your mouth. An X-ray examination may reveal:

 small areas of decay between the teeth or below existing restorations

(fillings);
 infections in the bone;
 periodontal (gum) disease;
 abscesses or cysts;
 developmental abnormalities;
 some types of tumors.

Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage can save time, money
and unnecessary discomfort. It can detect damage to oral structures not visible
during a regular exam. If you have a hidden tumor, radiographs may even help
save your life.

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How do dental X-rays compare to other sources of radiation?

We are exposed to radiation every day from various sources, such as frequent
airplane travel and high altitudes, minerals in the soil, and appliances in our
homes (like smoke detectors and television screens).

Estimated Exposure
Source
(mSV*)
Dental radiographs x  

Bitewings (4 films) 0.038

Full-mouth series (about 19 films) 0.150
Medical radiographs x  

Lower GI series 4.060

Upper GI series 2.440
Chest 0.080

Average radiation from outer space In Denver, CO 0.510

(per year)
Average radiation in the U.S. from Natural sources 3.000
(per year)
Source: Adapted from Frederiksen NL. X-Rays: What is the Risk? Texas
Dental Journal. 1995;112(2):68-72.

*A millisievert (mSV) is a unit of measure that allows for some comparison

between radiation sources that expose the entire body (such as natural
background radiation) and those that only expose a portion of the body (such as
radiographs).
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What if I'm pregnant and need a dental radiograph examination?

A radiograph may be needed for dental treatment or a dental emergency that

can’t wait until after the baby is born. Untreated dental infections can pose a
risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health
of the mother and child. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low.
However, every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. A leaded
apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental
radiograph is taken. A leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from
radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid
collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant
women and children. Dental radiographs are not contraindicated if one is trying
to become pregnant or is breast feeding.