Are dental X-rays safe?
Quick answer
Are dental X-rays safe, and how often do I need them?
Yes. A routine dental X-ray uses a very small radiation dose — comparable to a few days of the natural background radiation everyone receives.
At York House Dental Practice in West Byfleet, X-rays are taken only when they will change a decision, and how often depends on your risk of decay and gum disease, typically every one to two years for adults. A single X-ray is £12 and a panoramic X-ray is £50.
What you need to know
X-rays show what an examination cannot: decay between teeth, infection at the root tip, bone levels around teeth and implants, and wisdom teeth still under the gum. Missing these means problems are found later, when they are bigger and more expensive to fix.
Patients with frequent decay, gum disease or lots of restorations may need them more often; low-risk patients less often. Implant planning uses a 3D CBCT scan (from £125) because it shows bone height and width accurately.
If you are pregnant or might be, tell us. Non-urgent X-rays are usually postponed, although an X-ray can be taken if it is needed to treat pain or infection. Routine X-rays are included in our membership plans. Full fees are on the price list.
Last reviewed: by Dr Kaveet Patel, Principal Dentist
