In healthcare, we’re always weighing potential risks against potential benefits — from medications to surgeries. Dental x-rays? Same story. At our holistic dental office, we often hear concerns about x-rays, and honestly, I welcome the dialogue. As a health-conscious person myself, I get it. I question everything when it comes to my family’s care, too.
But here’s the thing — dental x-rays are essential, even in biological dentistry. Let’s break it down so you can feel confident and informed about why (and when) they’re necessary.
Why We Need X-Rays — The Clinical Side
Some things are simply invisible to the naked eye. Decay between teeth? Infection at the root? Bone loss, tumors, or wisdom teeth coming in sideways? X-rays catch all of that. Cone beam CT scans even let us screen for airway, sinus, and jaw issues that would otherwise go undetected. Comprehensive dental care isn’t possible without these insights.
Why We Need Them — The Ethical Side
We can only visually inspect a small part of your teeth and jaws. Sure, I might see a cavity during an exam, but without an x-ray, I can’t tell how deep it goes or if hidden problems lurk beneath the surface. Ethically, treating patients without x-rays feels like guessing — and we’d never guess when it comes to your health. We treat every patient like family, and I wouldn’t let my family go without this critical tool.
Why We Need Them — The Legal Side
Even as a holistic practice, we follow professional standards. Minimal x-rays are part of standard care, as required by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (where we’re licensed). Following regulations helps us provide safe, comprehensive care while protecting your health.
When X-Rays Aren’t Necessary
Good news! Infants and toddlers usually don’t need x-rays unless there’s trauma. If you’re coming in for a soft tissue issue (like gum or cheek concerns), we can often skip the x-rays, too.
The ALARA Principle: Minimizing Radiation Exposure
We operate under the ALARA principle — As Low As Reasonably Achievable. This means we only take x-rays when necessary, exposing you to the least amount of radiation possible while still getting the information we need. Learn more about ALARA from the ADA.
The Perks of Digital Equipment
Digital x-rays have significantly reduced radiation exposure compared to older systems. Plus, each new model tends to be even safer than the last. Manufacturers are just as invested as we are in lowering exposure while ensuring excellent care.
How Much Radiation Are We Talking?
For perspective, the x-rays we take during a new patient exam expose you to about the same amount of radiation as a flight from New York to Los Angeles. For the curious, here’s a detailed chart from Today’s RDH: Radiation Equivalencies Chart.
How to Reduce Radiation Effects
Radiation can have an oxidizing effect on cells, but you can counteract it by drinking plenty of clean water and eating antioxidant-rich foods (think colorful fruits and veggies). Some patients also opt for homeopathic remedies, like those from Hygieia Homeopathy.
Informed Consent: Your Right to Choose
Your health, your choice. X-rays require your consent, and you’re always welcome to decline. Keep in mind, though, that skipping x-rays may limit what we can do during your visit. Still, you’re in control.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Unless you tell us otherwise, we’ll plan to take x-rays during your first appointment. If you prefer to skip them, just let us know ahead of time so we can adjust accordingly.
Using X-Rays from Other Offices
Got recent x-rays from another dentist (within the last 12 months)? Perfect! We can use those if they’re clear and cover the areas we need. Just remember, some offices require paperwork or fees to transfer records, so allow at least two business days to get them sent over.
If You Forget to Bring X-Rays...
No worries. We can either take new ones or switch your appointment to a consultation-only visit. However, without current x-rays, we usually can’t perform a cleaning or full exam. In most cases, this will require a follow-up visit (and possibly an additional fee).
Is There Anything Better Than X-Rays Yet?
We’re getting there! Devices using transillumination can detect some cavities, but they’re not quite as detailed as x-rays. For now, x-rays remain the gold standard.
Let’s Talk
We’re here to support your family’s health in the most informed, holistic way possible. If you have questions or unique needs, just ask. We’ll work together to find the best solution.
References
@ Flourish Dental Boutique 2019
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