When you visit the dentist for a routine checkup, you may be asked to take X-rays. Understandably, many patients have questions about the safety of dental X-rays—especially when it comes to radiation exposure. The good new is that  dental X-rays are considered very safe, especially with today’s digital technology and proper precautions are in place.

Dental X-rays, also known as radiographs, are diagnostic images that allow your dentist to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. They play a key role in identifying issues that can’t be detected through a visual exam alone, such as:

Early detection is critical. By identifying these issues sooner rather than later, your dentist can treat them more effectively and help prevent more serious complications.

All forms of radiation carry some level of risk, but the amount involved in dental X-rays is extremely small. The diagnostic benefits—especially for preventing pain, infection, or tooth loss—far outweigh any minimal concerns for most patients.

Special considerations may apply if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition, so always let your dentist know during your visit.

With advancements in dental imaging, safety has dramatically improved. At Dental Wellness at Serenbe we use the latest digital X-ray technology, which offers:

• Reduced radiation exposure

• Faster image capture and review

• Sharper images for accurate diagnoses

• Eco-friendly processing without chemicals

We also take every precaution, including the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars, to shield sensitive areas and further minimize exposure. X-rays are only taken when necessary and tailored to your specific dental health needs.

This is one of the most common concerns patients have—and fortunately, the answer is no. Dental X-rays expose you to a very low dose of radiation. In fact, the amount of radiation you get from a full set of dental X-rays is comparable to the amount of radiation you absorb from things like TVs, smartphones and computers, building materials like ceramic floor tiles and granite countertops and background radiation from the sun, stars and Earth itself.

To give you a comparison, the radiation from a routine dental X-ray is roughly equivalent to:

• Two hours in the sun

• An hour-long airplane flight

Thanks to modern digital X-ray systems, the amount of radiation used is up to one-third lower than traditional film X-rays. This means patients receive even less exposure without compromising image quality.

In fact, digital panoramic X-rays—also known as orthopantomograms (OPGs) or dental panoramic films—offer a full view of the upper and lower jaws with a very low radiation dose, making them a safe and effective diagnostic tool for both children and adults.

The frequency of X-rays depends on your oral health, age, and dental history. General guidelines include:

• New patients: A full set of baseline X-rays.

• Adults with good oral health: Bitewing X-rays every 1–2 years

• Children and teens: X-rays more often to monitor developing teeth and cavity risk

Your dentist will recommend a schedule that makes sense for your specific needs.  All dentists in the state of Georgia are required by the Georgia Dental Board regulations to diagnose and perform treatment for all patients.

At Dental Wellness at Serenbe, we are committed to safe, effective, and personalized dental care. By using state-of-the-art technology and adhering to strict safety protocols, we ensure that your dental x-rays are as low-risk as possible—while giving us the tools we need to protect your smile.

Have questions about dental X-rays or need to schedule a checkup?
Contact us today to book your appointment and experience expert care in a welcoming, patient-first environment.