Yes — and they’re an important part of your oral health care.
If you’ve ever hesitated before saying “yes” to a dental X-ray, you’re not alone. Many patients wonder whether the radiation exposure is safe, especially with repeated visits over time.
The good news? Dental X-rays are extremely safe, especially with modern technology and the safety standards followed in Canadian dental clinics. In fact, the amount of radiation is very low — and the benefits far outweigh the risks.
Here’s what you need to know.
⚡ What Are Dental X-Rays Used For?
Dental X-rays (also called radiographs) help your dentist:
- Detect cavities between teeth or under fillings
- Identify bone loss or signs of gum disease
- Monitor jaw and tooth development (especially in children and teens)
- Spot infections, abscesses, or cysts
- Plan treatments like root canals, extractions, or implants
In many cases, X-rays can reveal issues before they become painful or costly to treat.
☢️ How Much Radiation Do Dental X-Rays Emit?
Dental X-rays emit very low levels of radiation — especially with digital X-ray systems, which are now standard in most Canadian dental clinics.
To put it into perspective:
- A single bitewing X-ray exposes you to about 0.005 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation
- That’s less than a day of natural background radiation you get from simply living on Earth
- It’s also less than what you’d receive on a short airplane flight
Your dental team will always follow the ALARA principle — keeping radiation As Low As Reasonably Achievable — and only recommend X-rays when truly needed.
🛡 Safety Measures We Use
To protect you during X-rays, we use:
- Lead aprons and thyroid collars, especially for children and pregnant patients
- Modern digital sensors, which reduce radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to traditional film
- Personalized care — we take X-rays only when medically necessary, not just by routine
Your safety is always our top priority.
🤰 Are Dental X-Rays Safe During Pregnancy?
In general, necessary dental X-rays are considered safe during pregnancy, especially with proper shielding and when digital X-rays are used.
However, if you’re pregnant or think you might be, let your dental team know. In non-urgent cases, we may delay X-rays until after the first trimester or consult with your physician to ensure the best care for you and your baby.
🧒 Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?
Yes — when taken properly and in moderation, dental X-rays are safe for children and extremely helpful in:
- Monitoring developing teeth
- Checking for early cavities
- Guiding orthodontic care
We follow strict pediatric protocols to ensure minimal exposure and only take X-rays when necessary for diagnosis or treatment planning.
Final Thoughts
Dental X-rays are a safe, essential tool for protecting your oral health. With today’s advanced technology and safety protocols, the benefits of early detection and prevention far outweigh the tiny amount of radiation exposure.
Still have questions? We’re happy to explain our process and safety measures any time. Book an appointment or give us a call — your peace of mind matters just as much as your smile.