If you're researching dental care in South Surrey, it's natural to have questions about X-rays before your first visit. Many people wonder whether they're needed, how much radiation is involved, and what the dentist is actually looking for. This guide walks through what to expect, so you can feel comfortable asking the right questions.
Why X-rays are part of a thorough dental exam
A visual exam only shows the surfaces of your teeth and gums. X-rays let your dentist see what's happening beneath and between them. That means small problems can be found and treated early, before they become uncomfortable or complicated.
Commonly, X-rays help show:
- Cavities that form between teeth
- The bone that supports your teeth
- The roots of your teeth
- Wisdom teeth still sitting under the gum
Putting the radiation in perspective
Dental X-rays use a very small dose, and modern digital X-rays need even less than older film. One digital image is about 1 microsievert (0.001 millisieverts). The numbers below are approximate and vary with equipment and technique.
| Source | Approximate dose |
|---|---|
| One digital dental X-ray image | 0.001 mSv |
| Cross-Canada flight | 0.02 mSv |
| Chest X-ray | 0.1 mSv |
| One year of natural background radiation in Canada | 1.8 mSv |
Put another way, a cross-Canada flight is roughly the same as 20 dental X-ray images. A good practice takes X-rays only when they're needed, not automatically at every visit.
What digital X-rays mean for you as a patient
Beyond the lower dose, digital images are practical for patients. They can be enlarged on screen, so your dentist can point out exactly what they see rather than just describing it. They can also be sent securely to your insurer or a specialist, which helps with claims and referrals.
Some treatments call for more detailed imaging. Cone Beam 3D imaging, for example, is used only when needed, such as when planning dental implants. If you're curious about that path, the dental implants guide explains the process step by step.
Questions patients often ask
Can I have X-rays if I'm pregnant? Please tell your dental team if you are pregnant or think you might be. Routine X-rays can often wait until after your pregnancy.
What about children? X-rays for kids are taken only when needed, based on their age and their teeth.
I had X-rays recently. Do I need them again? If you've had dental X-rays in the last 12 months, ask your previous office to share them. That way a new dentist can often avoid retaking them.
How to prepare for your visit
A little preparation makes a new-patient appointment smoother:
- Request your recent X-rays from your previous dental office
- Mention any pregnancy, health changes or concerns before imaging
- Write down questions about radiation or why a particular image is suggested
- Share any anxiety so your team can help you feel at ease
A caring dentist will gladly explain why an X-ray is recommended and what it shows. You can see the full picture of services at Morgan Heights Dental Centre's main website, including family-friendly care for all ages.
Want the short version?
For a quick summary of the numbers and answers, see the original post, are dental x rays safe. And if you still have questions, just ask. Good dental care starts with feeling informed and comfortable.