Misconceptions & Myths About Digital X-Rays

If you're considering Scott County orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, look no further than Mack Orthodontics. At Mack Orthodontics, we know that your smile is as unique as you are. With two convenient locations, state-of-the-art equipment, and highly-trained staff, we're ready to address your specific Eldridge orthodontics needs and make your smile as beautiful and healthy as it can be.

Digital Versus Traditional X-Rays

Digital X-rays are essentially the same as traditional ones. The only real difference is that digital X-ray sensors are connected to a computer rather than a film. It may help to think of a digital X-ray like a digital camera: It does the same thing as a traditional camera, but the images it captures are clearer, have higher resolutions, and can be manipulated and enhanced by computer software.

Misconceptions About X-Rays

People have several common misconceptions when it comes to X-rays. This makes sense since people tend to be wary of things they don't understand. Most people don't really understand X-rays beyond the fact that they utilize radiation to capture images of the inside of human bodies. Most people do, however, know that radiation can be dangerous, so a little apprehension is only natural.

Here's a look at some of the most common myths about radiation and X-ray technology:

X-Rays Can Cause Cancer

While high doses of radiation can cause certain types of cancer, X-rays usually use the smallest amount of ionizing radiation of all imaging tests, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In truth, the risk posed by X-ray procedures is extremely small.

X-Rays Cause Infertility

The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) states that the risk of infertility posed by X-ray procedures and computerized tomography (CT) scans is basically zero; the radiation emitted by these procedures is simply too low.

Medical Imaging Is One of the Only Sources of Radiation

You may find it surprising, but people are exposed to radiation every day. Radiation is actually all over the place; radiation can be found in:

• The soil
• Food and water
• Everyday electronics

In fact, the average human is exposed to roughly three millisieverts (mSv) of radiation annually, and a dental X-ray exposes you to only about a day's worth of radiation.

Starting Your Scott County Orthodontic Treatment

Knowing how minor the risk of dental imaging is should put your mind at ease when it comes to pursuing Eldridge Orthodontics, so when you're ready to get the smile you've always wanted, contact us at Mack Orthodontics. For your convenience, we have offices in both Bettendorf and Eldridge.

A look at common misconceptions and concerns surrounding X-rays and other medical imaging procedures. Contact Mack Orthodontics to know more.ll at (563) 359-4686. Your best smile is waiting for you!