X-Ray Misconceptions

Wellness Wednesday

A common dental X-ray misconception is that they include a dangerous amount of radiation exposure. The truth is that their radiation exposure represents a minor contribution to total exposure from all natural and human-made sources, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). For example, eating a banana measures 0.1 millisieverts (mSv), one digital X-ray is 4.0 mSv, a cross-country airplane flight is 40.0 mSv, and a chest or abdomen CT scan is 7000 mSv.

So, make sure your dental X-rays are up to date! They can provide advanced warning about many health issues, which can avoid future pain, emergencies, and costly procedures.