Dentists need to take x-rays of their patients' teeth from time to time, even if it is simply for a once-a-year checkup. That's the only way he can diagnose a problem toothache or find out how the wisdom teeth are coming in. However, x-rays require radiation in order to work. Patients and the technologists require protection from that radiation. That's when the x-ray apron is used.
The x-ray apron, or lead apron, is lined in lead that covers the patient from the neck to the knees. These aprons have been used for several decades. Nowadays, many states have laws that also require thyroid shield protectors. These are used when the x-ray apron does not cover the neck. These radiation protection garments are effective in preventing exposure, which can cause a variety of medical problems, especially with repeated use. Although x-ray machines are safer than they used to be, patients and technologists can never be too safe.
One safety factor in the use of the machines is the federal law that requires they be checked every two years for leaks, cracks and possible unacceptable risks. Some states even require more frequent testing. If the x-ray machine passes the tests, the dentist will receive a license to use the machine. This is another reason that no one should be concerned when he needs a dental x-ray. The use of the apron today is also for peace of mind.
There are many types of dental x-rays. The most common are the intraoral x-rays. These will show the dentist the dental roots, caries, status of new developing teeth, the bony area that surrounds each tooth, and basic checking for good dental health.
The extraoral x-rays are made using the film outside of the mouth. Even though there is still a focus on the teeth, these x-rays are mainly used to view the jaw or the skull. The dentist could check the status of any impacted teeth, check the distinction between the jaws and the teeth, and check the bones of the face. These x-rays are not as detailed for the teeth as the intraoral x-rays so they are not used to find any flaws or caries in any particular tooth.
Without dental x-rays a dentist would be doing his job like someone on a long road trip not using a map or GPS system. The x-rays are an important guide and the x-ray apron is still used for that minimally needed protection.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.massagebyben.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites 