How safe are X-rays and do I need them at each visit?
The digital x-ray systems that we use in our office deliver very little radiation, and we firmly adhere to the ALARA principle for radiation exposure-As Low As Reasonably Achievable. X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for us to ensure that small problems don't become bigger ones but it is also important to us that we minimize our patients to radiation exposure. Since we personalize our treatments for each patient, the frequency of x-rays will be different depending on each patient’s oral health. An adult who has not had cavities or other problems for a few years will definitely not need x-rays at every appointment, and may be fine to have them taken once every couple of years. If a patient’s dental situation is less stable and we are monitoring a certain area, it may require more frequent or area-specific x-rays to be taken.