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by Dr. Valerie Woo
Is it safe to x-ray my little one?
Many parents are concerned about their child’s first dental x-ray and some even consider not using this invaluable diagnostic technique because of their concern of radiation exposure. While it is understandable to have this concern, it is important to understand the facts, risks, and benefits of x-ray technology.
 Every human being is exposed to radiation every day of their life from a wide variety of sources. Radiation is received from outer space, from the ground we walk on, and from our food, water and the air we breathe. You are receiving trace amounts of radiation every time you walk outside, fly in an airplane, watch television, or work on your computer. It is a part of living on Earth and while it is certainly something to be aware of, there are necessary and acceptable levels. The average dose per person is approximately 360 mrem per year.* Living in Loudoun County, Virginia, a state that borders the Atlantic Coast, for example, exposes us to an annual dose of 16mrem versus living in the Colorado Plateau (63 mrem).
Dental x-rays expose a patient to just 1 mrem of radiation and allow doctors to accurately diagnose and plan treatment in situations in the mouth that are difficult to see. For children, xrays are used to see cavities and to monitor development and growth. Many children need annual bitewing x-rays, while others require them more frequently when at increased risk of cavities. Increased risk may be defined by a history of cavities, poor diet, and those lacking fluoride in their drinking water.
Since your dentist gains valuable information from x-rays, it is generally not in your child’s best interest to refuse dental x-rays. When being x-rayed, children are carefully protected with lead vests and lower dosages are used. The good news is that the amount of actual radiation can be reduced even further through the use of updated technology. Many dentists have converted to digital x-rays, which reduce radiation exposure by 80%.
The bottom line is that you need to feel comfortable with the recommendations of your child’s dental care provider. Ask questions and seek answers until you are confident that your child is receiving proper care in trusted hands. * Source: http://www.ans.org/pi/resources/dosechart/
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