Are you afraid of getting a dental X-ray? Let's learn everything about it (Dental X-ray)

When you go to a doctor, that is, a dentist, to get your teeth checked, he opens your mouth and examines the condition of your teeth, right? But did you know that the doctor can only see the outside of the tooth? The eye cannot see what is going on inside the tooth, in the roots of the tooth, inside the gums, and inside the jawbone. That is why doctors use a technology called "dental X-ray" to find problems in places that are invisible to the eye.

So, what exactly is a dental X-ray?

Simply put, a dental X-ray is a picture of your teeth and jawbone. We sometimes call this a ``radiograph.'' These X-ray images help dentists see clearly many things that our eyes cannot see during a normal examination, for example, your jawbone, the nerves inside your teeth, the roots of your teeth, and the air cavities on either side of your nose (sinuses).

What diseases can be detected with a dental X-ray?

Imagine, when you look at the surface of your tooth, there is no problem. But you have a little pain. In times like these, an X-ray is indispensable to find the cause. There are many problems that a doctor can find through a dental X-ray image.

Additionally, doctors use X-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants, braces, or dentures, and to monitor healing after treatments such as root canals.

How does this X-ray machine work?

It's very simple. It's like getting an X-ray when you break an arm or leg. A dental X-ray machine also sends a very small amount of radiation through your mouth. These rays of radiation pass easily through soft tissues like your cheeks, but they are blocked when they pass through solid objects like teeth and bones. That's how the "shadow" of the teeth and bones is created.

There are two types of X-rays available today. The old method uses traditional film. But now many places have digital X-rays. In this, the image is taken using a sensor and a computer.

What are the main types of dental X-rays?

They can be divided into two main types, depending on where the film or sensor that takes the X-ray image is located.

1. Intraoral X-ray: In this, the image is taken by placing the sensor or film inside your mouth.

2. Extraoral X-ray: In this, the image is taken by placing the sensor or film outside your face.

Let's look at these types in a little more detail.

What happens when you take an X-ray?

This is a very simple process. You have no reason to be afraid.

First, the technician will put a lead apron around your chest. Sometimes a thyroid collar will be placed around your neck. This is to protect you from unnecessary radiation. You will then be asked to sit or stand in a chair. The technician will then place the X-ray film or sensor directly in your mouth, point the X-ray machine at the right spot, and take the picture. It is very important that you do not move at all during this time. The entire process will take only a few seconds.

The biggest question everyone has: Is this really safe?

Yes. Dental X-rays are very safe because the amount of radiation used is very low. To understand this, think about it this way: The amount of radiation you are exposed to when you get a dental X-ray is the same as the amount of radiation you are exposed to from the following:

• Radiation emitted from building materials like granite or ceramic tiles.
• Radiation received while flying high in the sky.
• Natural background radiation that we constantly receive from the sun and the earth.

But, like anything, frequent exposure to high doses of radiation is not good, as it can increase the risk of cancer. That's why dentists only take X-rays when absolutely necessary . So if your doctor recommends an X-ray, don't be afraid to get one.

So how often is it good to get X-rays?

This will vary from person to person. If your teeth and gums are healthy, you may only need an X-ray every 6 to 18 months. However, if you have gum disease, frequent tooth decay, or another emergency, your doctor may recommend an X-ray more often.

Also, young children, especially when their baby teeth are falling out and permanent teeth are coming in, may need to have X-rays more often than adults if they have impacted teeth.

What if I say I can't get an X-ray?

Yes, you have the right to refuse any medical treatment. But keep in mind that without an X-ray image, the doctor may not be able to diagnose some diseases correctly. If that happens, he may not be able to give you the treatment you need.

If you're afraid of radiation, instead of just saying "no," talk to your dentist about it openly. He or she can explain the risks and benefits to you.

Can you get an X-ray during pregnancy?

This is a question that many mothers have. Generally, yes. It is considered safe to have dental X-rays during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Because, as mentioned earlier, wearing a protective lead apron will not affect the baby in the womb.

However, in practice, most doctors avoid taking X-rays during pregnancy unless it is absolutely necessary . For example, in an emergency, such as a severe infection, an X-ray is needed to treat the condition.

Can dental X-rays detect cancer?

Some types of oral cancer, especially those that affect or spread to the jawbone, can be detected on a dental X-ray. However, not all types of oral cancer can be seen on an X-ray. Cancers that develop in the soft tissues (tongue, cheeks) are especially difficult to detect on these.

That's why regular oral exams and oral cancer screening by your dentist are so important.