Answer to Question #15149 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Medical and Dental Patient Issues — Dental

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

Q

I recently learned that the scan performed on my 12-year-old child was not a regular panoramic exam but was actually a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan. I'm very worried about my child being exposed to a high of dose radiation. This was just a routine visit, and I didn't realize some dental scans are CTs and use higher doses. I thought all dental imaging was low dose.

A

I understand that you are concerned about your child's exposure to radiation during a dental CBCT.

I agree that the CBCT scan has a higher radiation dose when compared to a regular panoramic x ray. Generally speaking, doctors only ask for such scans if they need further information, especially about something which could not be confirmed just by using routine x rays. CBCT scans provide more detailed information with a high resolution. For example, the doctor may have advised for a CBCT scan to look at the position of one or more teeth that have not yet emerged through the gum, or to evaluate position of your child's teeth to make a decision regarding orthodontic treatment (braces) or root canal treatment, or something looked suspicious. I would recommend you talk to your doctor regarding your concern and I'm sure they would help you understand the need for such a scan for your child.

Regarding the radiation dose, the dose is higher in a CBCT scan than regular dental x rays. However, I would urge you not to be very concerned. The risk of detrimental effects of a CBCT scan is negligible to almost zero. It is frequently done at the dentist's office and has significantly less radiation dose compared to the larger CT scans taken in hospitals. Furthermore, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs the risk involved with CBCT scanning.

Srinitha Singanamala, BDS, MPH

Answer posted on 20 November 2023. The information posted on this web page is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may affect the applicability of concepts, materials, and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice. To the best of our knowledge, answers are correct at the time they are posted. Be advised that over time, requirements could change, new data could be made available, and Internet links could change, affecting the correctness of the answers. Answers are the professional opinions of the expert responding to each question; they do not necessarily represent the position of the Health Physics Society.