“Do I really need to get X-rays today?”

It’s a question we hear often, and it’s a valid one. In a world where we are increasingly conscious of our exposure to various types of radiation, it’s natural to be cautious. The thought of X-rays can be unsettling, but what if we told you that the risk from not getting them is far greater than the risk from the X-rays themselves?

At Shuang Dentistry, we believe that patient education is key to building trust and alleviating fear. This guide will demystify dental X-rays, explain the safety measures we take, and put the radiation exposure into a perspective that might surprise you. Our goal is to help you understand why dental X-rays are one of the most important tools we have for protecting your long-term health.

Why Do We Need Dental X-Rays in the First Place?

Think of a dental X-ray as your dentist’s superpower. During a regular clinical exam, Dr. Yap can only see the visible surfaces of your teeth. He can’t see what’s happening:

• Between your teeth (the most common place for cavities to start)

• Underneath an existing filling or crown

• At the roots of your teeth

• In the jawbone that supports your teeth

  
  

Dental X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool that allows us to detect problems that are completely invisible to the naked eye. Without them, we would be flying blind. X-rays allow us to find and treat issues early, before they become painful, complex, and expensive problems. This includes:

• Small cavities before they turn into large ones requiring a root canal.

• Gum disease (periodontitis) by showing the level of the jawbone.

• Infections or abscesses at the root of a tooth.

• Cysts, tumors, or other abnormalities in the jawbone.

• Impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth) that are trapped in the jaw.

  
  

Early detection is the cornerstone of modern, minimally invasive dentistry. X-rays make it possible.

Understanding Radiation: Putting Dental X-Rays into Perspective

Radiation is a scary word, but it’s important to understand that we are exposed to natural background radiation every single day. This radiation comes from the sun, the earth, and even the food we eat (like bananas!). This is measured in a unit called a microsievert (μSv).

Let’s compare the radiation from dental X-rays to some everyday sources:

As you can see, the amount of radiation from a routine set of dental X-rays is incredibly small—often less than the amount of background radiation you’d absorb on a normal day, and a fraction of what you’d get on a long flight.

The ALARA Principle: How We Keep You Safe

In radiology, we operate under a guiding principle called ALARA, which stands for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” This means we take every possible precaution to minimize your radiation exposure while still getting the diagnostic information we need. At Shuang Dentistry, here’s how we practice ALARA:

1. We Use Digital X-Rays. This is the single biggest factor in reducing radiation. Modern digital sensors are incredibly sensitive and require up to 80-90% less radiation than the old-fashioned film X-rays. They also provide an instant image, which means no waiting and no need for retakes.

2. We Use Lead Aprons and Thyroid Collars. Before taking any X-ray, we will place a heavy lead apron over your chest and abdomen, and a thyroid collar around your neck. These act as a shield, protecting your most sensitive organs from any scattered radiation.

3. We Only Take X-Rays When Necessary. We don’t take X-rays on a one-size-fits-all schedule. Dr. Yap will assess your individual risk factors (such as your history of cavities, your age, and your current oral health) to determine which X-rays are needed and how often. For a healthy adult with a low risk of cavities, a set of check-up X-rays might only be needed every 12-24 months.

4. We Use Advanced 3D Imaging (CBCT) Judiciously. Our clinic is equipped with a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scanner, which provides incredible 3D images of your jaw and teeth. While it uses more radiation than a standard 2D X-ray, it is an invaluable tool for planning complex procedures like dental implant placement or wisdom tooth surgery. Using a CBCT scan allows for a more precise, safer, and less invasive surgery. We only use it when the diagnostic benefits clearly outweigh the risks.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes. With the proper precautions, dental X-rays are considered safe during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Dental Association are in agreement on this. The use of a lead apron makes the radiation exposure to the fetus negligible.

In fact, postponing a necessary X-ray and leaving a potential dental infection untreated poses a much greater risk to both the mother and the baby. If you are pregnant, please inform our team so we can take all the necessary precautions.

The Risk of NOT Taking X-Rays is Far Greater

While the radiation from dental X-rays is minimal, the risk of undiagnosed dental disease is significant. A small cavity between your teeth that goes undetected can spread deep into the tooth, leading to a painful abscess and the need for a root canal and crown—a procedure that is far more complex and expensive than a simple filling.

Undetected gum disease can lead to the loss of bone and, eventually, the loss of teeth.

By investing in a routine set of check-up X-rays, you are not exposing yourself to unnecessary risk; you are taking a proactive, preventive step to protect your health and save yourself from pain, time, and money down the road.

Your Health and Safety Are Our Priority

We understand that you may still have concerns, and we are always here to answer them. At Shuang Dentistry, we believe in open and honest communication. If you have questions about why a particular X-ray is needed, please ask! Dr. Yap will be happy to explain his reasoning and show you what he is looking for.

Our commitment is to provide you with the highest standard of care, and that includes using diagnostic tools responsibly and safely. Trust that when we recommend an X-ray, it is because we believe it is an essential step in protecting your beautiful smile.

Have more questions? Call or WhatsApp Shuang Dentistry at +65 6203 0010. We’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable with every aspect of your dental care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often do I need dental X-rays?

This depends on your individual risk. For a new patient, we typically recommend a full set of X-rays to establish a baseline. For a healthy adult with no recent cavities, check-up X-rays (bitewings) are usually recommended every 12-24 months. For patients with a higher risk of decay, we may recommend them every 6-12 months.

2. What are the different types of dental X-rays?

Bitewing X-rays are the most common check-up X-rays and show the areas between your back teeth. Periapical X-rays (PAs) show the entire tooth, from the crown to the tip of the root. A Panoramic X-ray (OPG) is a large, 2D image that shows your entire upper and lower jaw. A CBCT scan is a 3D image used for advanced diagnosis and surgical planning.

3. Do children need dental X-rays?

Yes. X-rays are very important for children to detect cavities between their teeth and to monitor the development and eruption of their permanent teeth. We are especially careful with children and only take X-rays when absolutely necessary.

4. I have a gag reflex. Can I still get X-rays?

Yes. Please let us know about your gag reflex. We have several techniques to help, such as using smaller sensors, having you sit more upright, and working quickly. For patients with a severe gag reflex, a panoramic X-ray can often provide a good overview without placing anything inside the mouth.

5. How often do I need dental X-rays?

This depends on your individual risk. For a new patient, we typically recommend a full set of X-rays to establish a baseline. For a healthy adult with no recent cavities, check-up X-rays (bitewings) are usually recommended every 12-24 months. For patients with a higher risk of decay, we may recommend them every 6-12 months.