Pregnant women often have questions about the safety of dental x-rays, and for good reason. The radiation associated with dental x-rays while pregnant can be concerning, and it is important to understand the risks and benefits associated with this diagnostic imaging. At Reveal Diagnostics, we provide comprehensive CBCT dental imaging services and offer advice to help pregnant women make informed decisions about their dental health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the safety of dental X-Ray While Pregnant and provide advice on how to ensure a safe experience.
Experts, including the American Dental Association, American College of Radiology, and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology say it is safe for women to get x-rays while pregnant.
Dental x-rays have come a long way since the first dental radiograph was taken in 1895. Today, two of the most common types of dental imaging include traditional x-rays and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). While both of these techniques serve the same purpose of diagnosing dental conditions and helping to plan treatments, they differ in several key ways.
Traditional dental x-rays are two-dimensional and use a small amount of radiation to create a single image of a tooth or section of the jaw. CBCT, on the other hand, uses a cone-shaped beam of radiation to create a 3D image of the entire mouth and jaw area. While traditional x-rays are still commonly used, CBCT has become more popular in recent years due to its increased accuracy and ability to capture detailed information that is helpful for a wide range of dental procedures.
The Safe Beam Technology at Reveal Diagnostics
At Reveal Diagnostics, we understand that your health and safety are of utmost importance, especially when you are pregnant. That is why we use the latest technology in our CBCT dental imaging services. Our Safe Beam Technology uses low levels of radiation and precision imaging to minimize exposure and ensure accurate results. This technology allows us to capture detailed images of your teeth, gums, and jaw while minimizing radiation exposure.
One of the main reasons that women might be reluctant to get a dental x-ray is that they're concerned about radiation exposure. The only part of their body exposed to radiation is the inside of their mouth. You will also receive a lead apron to protect you and your baby. ACOG (The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology) says dental x-rays do not produce enough radiation to harm a fetus.
Can You Get a Dental X-Ray While You Are Nursing?
According to the American College of Radiology, the amount of radiation in a dental x-ray is very low and has not been shown to cause any harm to breastfed infants. Therefore, nursing mothers can safely undergo dental x-rays if necessary. However, it is always recommended to inform your dentist or healthcare provider about your breastfeeding status before any medical procedure. If you have concerns, your dentist may opt to delay the x-ray until after you have stopped breastfeeding.
Alternatives to dental x-rays during pregnancy
Even though the dental X-ray process is safe to undertake throughout pregnancy, some women make proactive choices to limit their exposure to X-rays and other procedures during this time. Some women choose to postpone X-rays until after the end of the first trimester because this is the time that is most crucial for the baby’s development. This is not medically necessary but may help provide peace of mind.
Fortunately, there are also alternatives available. Your dentist can use other diagnostic tools, such as visual examinations, to assess your oral health. Ultimately, it is important to have an open discussion with your dentist about your concerns and preferences during pregnancy.