There have been many questions about the link with x-rays to tumors. Below is an article published by the ADA along with several sites that are to educate you about the safety of x-rays and conclusions on the possible link with x-rays to brain tumors.
Article from the ADA - Mouth Healthy
Dental X-rays are a useful diagnostic tool when helping your dentist detect damage and disease not visible during a regular dental exam. How often X-rays should be taken depends on your present oral health, your age, your risk for disease, and any signs and symptoms of oral disease. For example, children may require X-rays more often than adults because their teeth and jaws are still developing and their teeth are more likely to be affected by tooth decay than those of adults. Your dentist will review your history, examine your mouth and then decide whether or not you need X-rays.
Dental X-ray exams are safe; however, they do require very low levels of radiation exposure, which makes the risk of potentially harmful effects very small. Dental X-ray tools and techniques are designed to limit the body's exposure to radiation and every precaution is taken to ensure that radiation exposure is As Low As Reasonable Achievable (the ALARA principle). A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken. Also, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should also be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children.
DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY
A high-quality image can be obtained through the use of direct digital radiography while minimizing exposure to both patient and health care provider. Advantages of digital radiography include a decrease in radiation exposure for intraoral radiographs, speed in obtaining the image, ease of digital storage and electronic transmission of the image, and discontinued need for darkroom equipment. A digital radiographic image can be adjusted for optimal diagnostic quality, including alterations in contrast, density, magnification and color. Radiographic images can be printed on photo-quality paper or transparent sheets using any of a number of standard printers.
References:
http://www.ada.org/2760.aspx
http://www.ada.org/sections/professionalResources/pdfs/report_radiography.pdf
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/x/x-rays.aspx
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- Dickson Pediatric Dentistry
- Our main focus at Dickson Pediatric Dentistry is to ensure that your child has a positive dental experience. Our child-oriented practice is built on a love for children and a desire to make them feel comfortable with dentistry. Our goal is to alleviate any fear or anxiety you or your child may have concerning thier dental experience. We understand that all children are unique and must be treated as such in order to achieve this goal. We see children as young as 1 year old for early prevention.
