DIGITAL X-RAYS

According to a 2015 medical study published by JIOH, "Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an advanced imaging modality that has high clinical applications in the field of dentistry.

Radiation exposure dose from CBCT is 10 times less than from conventional CT scans during maxillofacial exposure. Furthermore, CBCT is highly accurate and can provide a three-dimensional volumetric data..."

White Sands Holistic Dentistry employs cone-beam technology to accurately diagnose your oral health, while exposing you to the least radiation possible.

Currently, the radiation-free technology that most holistic dentists are waiting on is not yet available. Dr. Mallery understands the concerns with ionizing radiation exposure with dental x-rays, however due to standards of practice, she must follow the guidelines for taking radiographs until an alternative is available.

We follow the Principle of ALARA (AS Low as Reasonably Achievable). Our office uses digital x-rays, which offer the fastest exposure and the least amount of radiation possible.

Digital x-rays expose you to 80-90% less radiation than conventional x-rays. Each patient's radiograph needs are a case by case basis. If a patient has had history of heavy decay in the past, more radiographs are necessary in order to avoid missing recurrent decay. Recurrent decay is decay that forms beneath an existing filling that may no longer be sealing the tooth. If a patient has had zero or limited areas of decay, less radiographs are required at the exam appointment.

We cannot diagnose all conditions concerning your teeth and surrounding structures with just a visual exam. X-rays are needed to see decay, impacted teeth, bone loss, abscesses, eruption patterns and pathology of the jaw.

The state of Florida regulations requires that dentists perform an exam before a cleaning. A cleaning is a prescription based procedure that requires an exam occurs at least every 13 months. Professional standards of dentistry include x-rays as part of the exam. In order to do a complete thorough exam and accurately diagnose conditions, x-rays may be required by Dr. Mallery. Dr. Mallery will determine x-ray frequency on her patients based on ADA guidelines. This is specific to each patient and is based on age, decay risk, periodontal health, medical and dental history.

Our office is waiting for the FDA to approve dental diagnostic devices that do not emit ionizing radiation. Until then, x-rays are required for our patients.

Despite using the safest technology currently available, we also understand that radiation is a concern and have researched ways for our patients to protect themselves from the required x-rays.

It is best to start these up to 3 weeks prior to having x-rays done:

• Methylcobalamin: 1,000ug daily

• Niacinamide: 500mg daily

• Vitamin E succinate: 400 IU twice a day

• N-acetyl-L-cysteine: 750mg daily

• Folate: 800ug daily

• Vitamin C (buffered): 500mg three times a day on an empty stomach

• Alpha-Lipoic acid: 200mg two times a day

• Quercetin: 500mg three times a day