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Dental x-rays, also known as dental radiographs, are pictures of the internal structure of your teeth and bones. X-rays are a form of energy that travels in waves. When these waves travel through solid objects, the object either absorbs the waves or they pass through the object. Your teeth and bones are dense, so x-rays continue to pass through. As a result, these pictures allow your dentist to see if you have any problems below the surface of your teeth and gums.

X-rays help your dentist see problems long before they get too serious. For example, x-rays can show:

• Cavities between teeth and around old fillings.

• Bone loss caused by gum disease.

• Bone infections or abnormalities.

• Teeth that are trapped under the gums, such as wisdom teeth.

• Long or crooked tooth roots that will need special care if you are having treatment such as a root canal.

• TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder).

Are dental x-rays safe?

Every day, you are exposed to very low levels of radiation. The amount of radiation from a dental x-ray is extremely small. Experts recommend that x-rays be used with caution to protect patients from unnecessary exposure to radiation. Also, advanced technology allow the members of your dental team to greatly reduce your exposure to radiation.

Here's how:

• Targeting – Newer equipment can target the beam of x-rays to a very small area. This cuts down on the amount of stray radiation. X-rays are directed only to the area your dentist is diagnosing.

• Speed – High-speed film and precise timers shorten the amount of time you are exposed to radiation.

• Equipment safety – Legislation requires that x-ray equipment be checked regularly to make sure it is working the way it should.

• Lead shielding – A lead apron and collar give you added protection from radiation.

• Staff training – Members of the dental team are well trained in taking x-rays.

• X-rays only when necessary – Your dentist will take x-rays only when you need them.

How often should I have dental x-rays taken?

Your dentist will only take x-rays if you need them. If you are a new patient, your dentist will probably want to take x-rays to get a more complete picture of your oral health. If you have recently had x-rays taken at a previous dental office, your new dentist may get these x-rays instead of taking new ones.

X-rays should never be taken on a routine basis. Some patients may need x-rays more regularly so that their dentist can keep an eye on the condition of their oral health. You may need x-rays regularly if you are going to have major dental treatment, if you are at a high risk for cavities, if you have gum disease or if you have dry mouth from medications or disease. How often you get x-rays will depend on your medical and dental history and current condition.

X-rays and pregnancy

It is important to tell your dentist if you are pregnant so that he or she can make well-informed decisions on what is best for you and your baby.

If you are pregnant and have a dental emergency, your dentist may need to take x-rays to treat you problem. Many procedures, like root canal treatment, need the help of x-rays. A dental infection that isn't treated may be dangerous to your fetus. Therefore, dental treatment may be needed to keep you and your unborn child healthy.

To make sure you are exposed to the least amount of radiation, lead shields for your abdomen (belly) and thyroid (neck) areas are used during dental x-rays. With this shielding in place, your fetus will not be exposed to radiation. Unless you need a dental x-ray, you and your dentist will probably agree not to take any until after your baby is born.

Digital x-rays or radiographs

One of the latest x-ray techniques is digital radiographs, also called digital x-rays. With digital x-rays, you and your dentist can discuss your treatment options together while looking at a digital x-ray on a computer monitor. Digital x-rays can be sent electronically to a consulting practitioner or dental specialist in a matter of seconds.

This content was inspired from publications produced by The Canadian Dental Association.