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1. How safe are dental X-rays?
Exposure to all sources of radiation -- including the sun,
minerals in the soil, appliances in your home, and dental X-rays
-- can damage the body's tissues and cells and can lead to the
development of cancer in some instances. Fortunately, the dose
of radiation you are exposed to during the taking of X-rays
is extremely small.
Advances in dentistry over the years have lead to the low radiation
levels emitted by today's X-rays. Some of the improvements are
new digital X-ray machines that limit the radiation beam to
the small area being X-rayed, higher speed X-ray films that
require shorter exposure time compared with older film speeds
to get the same results, and the use of film holders that keep
the film in place in the mouth (which prevents the film from
slipping and the need for repeat X-rays and additional radiation
exposure). Also, the use of lead-lined, full-body aprons protects
the body from stray radiation (though this is almost nonexistent
with the modern dental X-ray machines.) In addition, federal
law requires that X-ray machines be checked for accuracy and
safety every two years, with some states requiring more frequent
checks.
2. What are dental sealants, who should get them, and how
long do they last?
Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that are painted on the
chewing surfaces of teeth -- usually the back teeth (the premolars,
and molars) -- to prevent tooth decay. The painted on liquid
sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and groves of the
teeth forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.
Typically, children should get sealants on their permanent
molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. In this
way, the dental sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone
years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings
in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
Sealants can protect the teeth from decay for up to 10 years,
but they need to be checked for chipping or wear at regular
dental check-ups.
3. I have a terrible fear of going to the dentist yet I know
I need to. What should I do?
If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone. Between
9% and 15% of Americans state they avoid going to the dentist
because of anxiety or fear. The first thing you should do is
talk with your dentist. In fact, if your dentist doesn't take
your fear seriously, find another dentist. The key to coping
with dental anxiety is to discuss your fears with your dentist.
Once your dentist knows what your fears are, he or she will
be better able to work with you to determine the best ways to
make you less anxious and more comfortable.
The good news is that today there are a number of strategies
that can be used to help reduce fear, anxiety, and pain. These
strategies include use of medications (to either numb the treatment
area or sedatives or anesthesia to help you relax), use of lasers
instead of the traditional drill for removing decay, application
of a variety of mind/body pain and anxiety-reducing techniques
(such as guided imagery, biofeedback, deep breathing, acupuncture,
and other mental health therapies), and perhaps even visits
to a dentophobia clinic or a support group.
4. I recently moved and need a new dentist. How can I find
one?
The American Dental Association offers these suggestions:
- Ask family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers for their recommendations.
- Ask your family doctor or local pharmacist.
- If you're moving, your current dentist may be able to make
a recommendation.
- Call or write your local dental society:
Lancaster County Dental Society
P.O. Box #5157, Lancaster, PA. 17606
Telephone (717) 606-6534
FAX (717) 351-0254
5. What can I do if I have an unresolved issue or problem
with a dental services provider?
Patients of member dentists of the Lancaster County Dental
Society (LCDS) expect the best care. When a patient is unhappy
with his or her dental treatment, it is always a good policy
to speak with the providing dentist first. Sometimes the dentist
and patient are able to resolve the complaint or problem on
their own. Sometimes they can’t. That’s where the
LCDS and its complaint resolution process, called Peer Review,
can help. For
more information click here.
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