It appears that there is a correlation between dental x-rays and “Meningioma”, a common form of a non-malignant brain tumor typically diagnosed in adults who received 2 or more dental x-rays a year as a child. This finding came from research performed under the direction of Dr. Zeichner, comparing adults who have had this form of a brain tumor against those who haven’t, concluding that those who’ve had a “Meningioma” tumor were 2 to 5 times more likely to have had frequent dental x-rays as children. According to Dr. Zeichner the exposure from x-rays during adolescence, ten or more years ago, could have caused the tumors. “Children are still growing. During the growth process, their cells are sensitive to radiation.” Dr. Zeichner’s study was based upon approximately 1,400 Meningioma patients between the ages of 20 and 79, when they were diagnosed between the spring of 2006 and the spring of 2011, and upon their recollection of their dental history. He openly admits this is not an all together conclusive study, but it is enough to underscore the concern we should all have to being exposed to radiation through Dental x-ray equipment.
An important element in this research to consider is the age of the patient(s) researched and the level of exposure they “may have received”. Again, this is based upon recollection and not solely upon the fact. Also, it is important to remember that ten plus years ago x-ray equipment and exposure to “microsievert’s” (radiation levels) was much greater than it is today. In the last ten years, great strides have been made to improve the exposure to radiation during dental exams. For example, a dental x-ray 10 years ago sent 388 microsieverts of radiation to our head versus the exposure we receive through the use from today’s equipment which has reduced that exposure greatly to about 10% (35 microsieverts) of the amount we received over ten years ago, providing much less exposure to the patient and safer conditions. Compare the exposure at the dentist office to what the average person is exposed to over a year from other outside sources (about 3000 microsievert’s), that amount seems small by comparison. ABC News, Diane Sawyer, also covered this topic last night (see the following link at http://abcnews.go.com/Health/GMAHealth/brain-tumors-dental-rays/story?id=16101200).
The safest method, when receiving x-rays, is to limit the amount of exposure as much as possible. Dentists will use chest guard jackets over you when they x-ray but always ask for a “thyroid” protector as well to guard your neck area, too. Remember: Always ask if the x-ray is necessary or what options are available, for example: Is there another method the dentist can use to examine your mouth and/or the problem? Also, remember, some x-rays may be absolutely necessary and having bi-annual dental exams is also the best way to prevent a future problem. Your “mouth health” is just as important as your overall health so practice good dental health every day.
"These findings should not prevent anyone from going to the dentist," says lead researcher and neurosurgeon Elizabeth B. Claus, MD, PhD, of Yale University School of Medicine and Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "But it appears that a large percentage of patients receive annual X-rays instead of every two to three years, which is the recommendation for healthy adults.”
Meningioma tumors typically are malignant but are annoying and have been known to cause headaches, seizures, hearing and memory loss. Should you suspect you have the symptoms of Meningioma tumors, see your doctor immediately and (again) limit your exposure of having x-rays to the head area.
Quick Tips for Wellness: Become mindful of your exposure to radiation and avoid unnecessary x-rays whenever possible.
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