When you hear the term “radiation,” it’s natural to feel a twinge of fear. After all, radiation is often associated with harmful effects. However, not all radiation is dangerous, especially in the small doses used for dental X-rays at Jamaica Estates Dental.
Below, our dentists in Jamaica, NY, explore why dental X-rays are safe. How do we know? Bananas.
The Importance of Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays allow our Jamaica, NY, dentist to diagnose hidden issues that can’t be seen during a regular examination:
Early detection allows us to create more effective treatment plans, help you avoid more serious dental issues, and save you money and stress.
Understanding Radiation
Radiation is present all around us, coming from natural sources like the sun, soil, and even our food. Everyday activities expose us to small amounts of radiation, and these levels are generally considered safe. For instance, when you fly in an airplane or even live at a higher altitude, you’re exposed to more cosmic radiation because you’re closer to space.
Ultimately, it’s the dose that matters. Just as a certain amount of sunlight is beneficial for vitamin D production, but too much can cause sunburn, small doses of radiation—like those a Jamaica, NY, dentist uses for dental X-rays—are safe.
The Banana Equivalent Dose
One way to put radiation exposure into perspective is by using the “banana equivalent dose.” Yes, you read that right—bananas! They contain a small amount of the radioactive potassium-40 isotope. Eating one banana exposes you to about 0.1 microsieverts (a unit of radiation).
A standard dental X-ray exposes you to about 5 microsieverts. This means that getting a dental X-ray is roughly equivalent to eating 50 bananas, as the University of California explains. In other words, that amount of radiation is relatively small and not something to worry about.
Modern X-Rays vs. Old X-Rays
It should also ease your fears to hear that the dental X-ray technology used by our dentists in Jamaica, NY, has come a long way. In the past, scans may have involved higher doses of radiation and longer exposure times. However, modern dental X-rays use advanced technology to minimize exposure while still providing detailed images.
The Safety of Dental X-Rays
Safety is Jamaica Estates Dental’s top priority. We take specific precautions during X-rays to ensure minimal radiation exposure. One standard safety measure is the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars, which protect your body from scattered radiation.
In addition to protective gear, our dentists in Jamaica, NY, are trained to use the lowest possible radiation dose to achieve clear images.
Jamaica, NY, Dentist Peels Back the Layers on X-Ray Safety
The banana equivalent dosage of a dental X-ray can help you feel less apprehensive about getting one from our dentists in Jamaica, NY. Not getting an X-ray could mean missing vital health information. With our modern scans, we can get a quick but comprehensive glimpse at what’s going on beneath the surface of your smile, ensuring you get the most targeted care possible. Contact Jamaica Estates Dental today for an appointment!
