The Effects of Radiation in Dentistry

Generally, according to the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, the effects of radiation are minimal. The quantity of ionized radiation is measured in rems. This determines the biological effect of the receipt of ionized radiation. A millirem is one thousandth of a rem and an individual who receives radiation is permitted up to 100 millirem radiation exposure per year. Dental x-rays administer about 1 millirem per exposure.

History

• X in mathematics equals something that is undefined.

  According to Colgate World of Care, the process of taking x-rays was first discovered by the physicist Wilhelm Roentgen in 1895. He was motivated by glowing cathode tubes and was curious as to what possibilities they might produce. He found that when shown upon a solid part of the body it produced the ability to see the bone structure within when facing a fluorescent screen. He labeled the rays with "X" being that in mathematical terminology "X" defines anything that is not known.

Function

• Sometimes decay cannot be found by the naked eye alone.

  The purpose for dental radiographs is to determine the structure of the patients mouth and find malfunctions in the teeth and jaw if present. Dental radio-graphs also known as x-rays aid the dentist in discovering decay that might not be present to the naked eye and hidden in between teeth. There may also be underlying decay beneath the gums. X-rays also help the dentist find any bone loss or nerve damage to the tooth.

Types

• Cephalometric projections take x-rays of the entire side of the head

  There are two types of dental radiographs: Intraoral and extraoral. Intraoral radiographs take pictures from inside the mouth. Extraoral x-rays takes pictures from outside the mouth and head. Intraoral x-rays can take pictures of just one tooth and root or the whole mouth including the jaw. Extraoral x-rays can take pictures of the entire head and jaw including the teeth and roots. Intraoral x-rays mainly focus on the teeth and jaw while extraoral x-rays mainly focus on the growth and development of the jaw and skull.

Effects

• Dentist evaluate x-rays to determine treatment.

  Any form of radiation can ultimately lead to cell damage. What determines the amount of damage is the dosage of radiation received. Radiation used in dentistry is applied in minimal amounts and if used wisely instead of excessively it will not cause a high level of damage. Always make sure that when you are receiving a dental radiograph the staff member places a protective lead apron on you to protect your body from being exposed unnecessarily to radiation.

Prevention/Solution

• The crown is the top portion of the tooth and the root is the lower portion

  Precautions such as low x-ray dose is practiced to help decrease the effects of radiation exposure. Film holders are also helpful in insuring accurate placement of the film so that less repeat x-rays have to be taken due to slipping or movement from being held by fingers.