For about 100 years now, patients have been draped with lead aprons during x-rays to protect against radiation. That made sense when x-ray technology was in its infancy.
Today’s digital imaging requires far less radiation, and the radiation that is needed is far more focused. The lead apron just isn’t needed. Even the American Dental Association recently updated their guidance to reflect the new reality. They also advise taking x-rays somewhat less frequently.
Of course, biological dentists like Dr. Jana have taken such a conservative approach to x-rays for decades now. It’s great to see conventional dentistry catching up!
While it would be great if we didn’t have to take x-rays at all, the truth is that they’re a critical tool for both diagnosis and treatment planning. We couldn’t provide proper dental care without them.
That’s because there’s only so much we can tell about the health of the mouth through a basic visual exam. X-rays are needed to see things like cavities between teeth, the living tissues within each tooth; the supporting bone; the state of the airway, and more.
New patient x-rays not only give Dr. Jana a complete interior view of the mouth and a deeper view of your current dental health; they also provide a baseline we can measure future changes against. They include 10 regular digital x-rays, showing the teeth, gums, and alveolar bone, and a CBCT scan that shows the airway, sinuses, bone density, and root tips. It can also reveal hidden infections such as osteonecrotic lesions in the jaw (“cavitations”).
After this, we recommended taking the series of 10 x-rays every 12-18 months, guided by a patient’s history of caries (decay). A new 3D cone beam image is advised every three years. If problems arise – a toothache, say, or signs of decay – additional x-rays may be needed to diagnose and treat them.
Because all of these images are digital, they require much less radiation than conventional film x-rays. Both our standard and CBCT units are also tested regularly for scatter. In fact, we just had them tested and they passed, with no radiation emitted beyond the field of view.
Even so, we still keep lead aprons and thyroid collars on hand for patients who request them for regular x-rays. (They can’t be used for CBCT scans, as they create interference that ruins the images.)
We also encourage concerned patients to consult with their naturopathic or integrative physician for homeopathic or other remedies to help offset the effects of radiation. If you don’t already have such a doctor, we can give you a referral.
At the end of the day, our priority is providing comprehensive, holistic care that supports both your oral and whole body health. X-rays play an essential role, and we’re committed to doing them in the safest, most judicious way possible.
It’s all part of our mission to redefine the dental experience, making it as comfortable, empowering and health-focused as we can.
