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Common Misconceptions and Myths About Dental X-Rays

Common Misconceptions and Myths About Dental X-Rays

Posted on 09/15/2025

If you have ever visited a dentist, you have probably heard about or experienced dental X-rays. While they are a crucial and routine part of maintaining a sparkling smile, they are often misunderstood and viewed as an undesired dental procedure. Concerns range from exposure to the rays, their necessity, and the process of getting them. These misconceptions can sometimes lead patients to skip or opt for alternatives even when there are none. As an experienced family dentist in Lincoln, NE, we have prepared this article to debunk some of the common myths about dental X-rays to ensure you and your loved ones receive optimal dental health.


Myth 1: Dental X-Rays Can Expose You to Unsafe Radiation

Many patients worry about the risk of radiation exposure when using dental X-rays. But the fact of the matter is, dental X-rays use a minimal amount of radiation that is comparable to the exposure you get from everyday activities like spending time outdoors or even flying in an airplane. Advances in X-ray technology have further reduced any risk of exposure by limiting radiation up to 90% compared to traditional X-rays.


Myth 2: Dental X-Rays Should Only be Used When There Is a Problem

While it may seem that X-rays should only be used in need-to cases, they play a crucial part in preventive health care. This is because they allow the dentist to see what is happening between the teeth, which will enable them to identify issues such as bone loss, decay between teeth, and other dental problems that may not be evident during a routine exam. By identifying potential dental issues early, dentists can prevent these issues from becoming more serious and costly to treat.


Myth 3: Dental X-Rays Are Unsafe for Children

As expected, many parents worry about the safety of dental X-rays and their impact on their young ones. However, dental X-rays are safe for children and are, in fact, recommended in order to monitor their dental development early on. Since children are more susceptible to alignment and cavity issues, it is important to identify them early on in order to tackle them effectively. At West Gate Dental, we take extra care and precautions to protect children by using the lowest possible radiation setting and protective gear.


Myth 4: All Dental X-Rays Are the Same

Dental X-rays may seem like a one-dimensional procedure, but this is far from the truth. There are different X-rays designed to capture other areas of the mouth. Some common types include:

  • Periapical X-rays: These usually focus on one or two teeth from the crown to the root and are used to identify bone or root abnormalities.
  • Bitewing X-rays: They show lower and upper teeth in one area and are instrumental in detecting cavities between teeth.
  • Panoramic X-rays: This type of X-ray shows the entire mouth image, including jawbones, sinus area, and teeth. It is often used in planning orthodontic treatment and extractions.


Overcome the Myths to Receive Good Dental Care

Your dental health is as crucial as any other part of your body, if not more important. Taking the proper measures to ensure that your mouth is in the best possible shape may require experiencing the full breadth of dental services, so don't let myths stop you. Here at West Gate Dental, we have one of the best dentists in Lincoln, NE, who is qualified to provide you with the best dental care. Visit us today to learn more.