X-rays have been a controversial topic in dentistry for many years. This is partly because the “safe dose” of radiation in any medical setting has never been determined. Actually, human beings are exposed to x-rays every day. Just by spending an afternoon in the summer sunshine a person can absorb quite a bit of x-ray radiation (even with sunscreen on). Also, employees in our office who are taking dental x-rays dozens of times each day don’t even receive 1/100th of the amount of radiation that is considered appropriate for someone who works in radiology.

Dental x-rays are an extremely low dose of radiation. The dental problems associated with NOT getting recommended x-rays are far more risky than the negligible amount of radiation received from even multiple dental x-rays. Our patients are extremely safe.

Therefore, studies show, the safe dose is the dose that is as low as reasonable. This is why, in our office, your x-ray schedule will be determined on an individual basis. It is not necessary for each individual to get an x-ray every year. While we will certainly take x-rays as often as you would like them taken, we can make a recommendation that is appropriate for you.