In recent years, the link between dental X-rays and cancer has been the subject of several studies. One of the most notable findings is that people who had multiple dental X-rays in their lifetime were at a higher risk of developing meningioma, a type of brain tumor. This finding was supported by a study published in the journal Radiology which suggested that people who had received more than 20 dental X-rays in their lifetime were twice as likely to develop meningioma.
Other studies have suggested that people who receive numerous dental X-rays throughout their lifetime may be at a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer. Repeated exposure to radiation from the X-rays can damage the DNA and lead to the development of cancer.
When x-rays are taken, the radiation emitted from the x-ray source can cause damage to the teeth. Over time, this radiation can weaken the enamel of the teeth, making them more susceptible to bacteria, cavities and decay. Radiation can also cause damage to the underlying bone, leading to further problems.
The most common type of damage caused by X-rays is tooth discoloration. This occurs when the X-ray beam passes through the enamel of the tooth and deposits a small amount of radiation into the dentin, the layer of the tooth beneath the enamel. This radiation causes the dentin to darken, leading to an unattractive discoloration of the tooth. This discoloration can be permanent, and is often difficult to treat.
Bottom line, routine dental x-rays should be avoided at all costs. Due to the severe radiation affects, dental x-rays should only be prescribed in serious or life threatening situations.
Learn more? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27390489/
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