People who are afraid to see a dentist sometimes have irrational fears over X-rays. These fears stem from some myths about X-rays that, even in the modern day, have managed to perpetuate our culture. At West Gate Dental in Lincoln NE, dentists alleviate those fears by showing patients that these myths are wrong. Book your appointment today to speak to one of our qualified dentists at West Gate Dental in Lincoln NE.
Myth #1: You Can Get Cancer from X-Rays
Over a hundred years ago, this was true. The power of X-rays and how to control the machines wasn't well understood. Now, the short bursts of energy used by a modern X-ray machine aren't likely to cause cancer at all.
You might point out the lead screens for the radiology technicians or the lead aprons for pregnant women. However, the screens are intended to protect the unborn baby and allow the technician to see the x-ray images.
Myth #2: If You Have Metal in Your Body You Can't Get an X-Ray
This is not true. A metal object can obscure things in the X-ray, but there's no other reason for concern. The metal you wear on your person has to be removed so that the X-rays are clear enough to see. If you have something like Lincoln dental implants in your mouth, you can't remove them. The technician will just reposition you to get a better X-ray.
Myth #3: Having Metal in Your Body Causes Burning During an X-Ray
Again, this is simply not true. The purpose of having you remove anything metal or not wear anything metal during an x-ray is to prevent obstruction by metal objects when the pictures are taken. Your mouth will not be signed by Lincoln dental implants, your brain and skull will not be on fire if you have a metal plate in your head, etc.
Myth #4: X-Rays Make You Glow in the Dark
X-rays can't make anyone or anything glow in the dark. That simply is not how X-rays work. To be fair, if they could make you glow in the dark, wouldn't that be more fun than frightening?
Myth #5: X-Ray Energy Can Rub off on Other People
Dentists hear some strange things about X-rays, but X-ray energy cannot do this. The electromagnetic energy produced by an X-ray machine is a short pulse of radiated light that cannot rub off on anyone. You can feel much more comfortable about getting dental x-rays and spending time with friends and family after your appointment knowing that all of the above myths are debunked.
Book your appointment with West Gate Dental in Lincoln NE today!