Dental X-rays let us see what cannot be seen by eye, such as decay between teeth, infection at the root and bone levels. Many patients ask about radiation, so here is what you should know.
Key points
- Dental X-rays use a very small dose of radiation.
- We only take X-rays when they are needed to diagnose or plan treatment.
- Tell us if you are or might be pregnant; non-urgent X-rays are usually postponed.
- How often you need them depends on your risk of decay and gum disease.
Why dental X-rays are needed
- Finding decay between teeth and under old fillings.
- Checking for infection or abscesses at the tips of roots.
- Measuring bone loss from gum disease.
- Checking wisdom teeth and developing teeth in children.
- Planning treatment such as root canals and implants.
How much radiation is involved?
Modern digital dental X-rays use a very low dose. A small X-ray of a few teeth involves a fraction of the natural background radiation everyone receives from the environment each year. The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) provides information on radiation doses from medical and dental imaging.
How we keep exposure low
- We only take X-rays when the information will help your diagnosis or treatment.
- We use digital sensors, which need less radiation than older film.
- Equipment is registered, tested and operated by licensed practitioners under a radiation management plan.
- We ask about previous X-rays so they are not repeated unnecessarily.
X-rays and pregnancy
Please tell us if you are or might be pregnant. Routine X-rays are usually postponed until after the baby is born. If you need urgent treatment for pain or infection, an X-ray may still be appropriate because the dose is very low and the beam is aimed at the mouth. Read more about dental care during pregnancy.
Common questions
How much radiation is in a dental X-ray?
A small bitewing or intraoral X-ray involves a very low dose, comparable to a small fraction of the natural background radiation people receive each year.
Can I have a dental X-ray while pregnant?
Non-urgent X-rays are usually delayed until after pregnancy. If an X-ray is needed for urgent care, the dose is very low and the abdomen is not in the beam. Always tell us if you are or might be pregnant.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
It varies. Some people need bitewing X-rays every one to two years, while others at low risk need them less often. We decide based on your individual needs.
Reviewed by the Glenmore Park Dental Services clinical team, October 2026. This article is general information, not personal dental advice.
To book, call Glenmore Park Dental Services on (02) 4733 1197 or request an appointment. We are at Shop 17b, 11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park, and open Monday to Saturday.