X-Rays at the Dentist: Safety Myths vs Facts

Dental X-rays are one of the most misunderstood parts of dental care. Many patients worry about radiation exposure, how often X-rays are taken, or whether they’re truly necessary.

At Dr. Colleen Catera’s Babylon, NY dental office, patient safety and transparency come first. That’s why her practice uses modern digital dental X-ray technology, designed to capture highly detailed images while using significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays.

Let’s separate fact from fiction—and explain how today’s technology makes dental X-rays safer than ever.

Why Dentists Use Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays allow dentists to detect issues that can’t be seen during a visual exam alone. These include:

• Cavities between teeth
• Bone loss from gum disease
• Infections below the gumline
• Abscesses or cysts
• Structural issues beneath existing dental work

Without X-rays, many dental problems go unnoticed until they become painful, costly, or require more extensive treatment.

Common Dental X-Ray Myths—Debunked

Myth #1: Dental X-Rays Expose You to Dangerous Radiation

Fact:
Modern digital dental X-rays use extremely low radiation levels. In fact, the exposure from a single digital dental X-ray is often less than what you experience from natural background radiation in daily life.

At Dr. Catera’s office, imaging is performed using low-radiation digital technology, and protective measures are used whenever appropriate.

Myth #2: Dentists Take X-Rays Too Often

Fact:
Dental X-rays are recommended based on individual risk, not a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Dr. Catera considers factors such as:

• Your dental history
• Cavity risk
• Gum health
• Existing restorations
• Time since your last imaging

Some patients may need X-rays more frequently, while others may not.

Myth #3: Dental X-Rays Are Unsafe During Pregnancy

Fact:
When clinically necessary, digital dental X-rays can be taken safely during pregnancy with proper shielding. In many cases, non-urgent imaging is simply postponed as a precaution.

Always inform your dentist if you are pregnant or think you may be.

Myth #4: X-Rays Are Only Used to Find Cavities

Fact:
Cavities are just one reason dentists use X-rays. Imaging also helps detect:

• Early bone loss
• Hidden infections
• Tooth root issues
• Changes beneath crowns or fillings



These findings allow for earlier, more conservative treatment.

Digital Dental X-Rays at Dr. Catera’s Babylon Office

At Dr. Colleen Catera’s dental practice in Babylon, NY, digital dental X-rays are the standard—not an upgrade or add-on.

Her office uses advanced digital imaging technology to:

• Reduce radiation exposure by up to 90%
• Capture high-resolution images instantly
• Detect dental problems earlier
• Minimize the need for repeat imaging
• Improve patient understanding through clear visuals

Unlike traditional film X-rays, digital images can be enlarged and reviewed chairside. This allows Dr. Catera to walk patients through findings and explain recommendations clearly, helping them make informed decisions about their care.

👉 Learn more about this technology here:
https://www.dentistbabylon.com/digital-dental-x-rays

Who Benefits Most from Digital Dental X-Rays?

Digital dental X-rays are especially helpful for patients who:

• Haven’t had dental imaging in several years
• Have a history of cavities or gum disease
• Are experiencing unexplained tooth sensitivity
• Want the lowest radiation option available
• Prefer modern, technology-driven dental care

This is why Dr. Colleen Catera, DMD uses digital dental X-rays at her Babylon, NY office as a core part of preventive and diagnostic care—not guesswork.

How Dental X-Rays Protect Your Long-Term Oral Health

Avoiding X-rays doesn’t eliminate risk—it often increases it.

Without proper imaging, dental issues can progress silently, leading to:

• More advanced decay
• Root canal treatment
• Tooth extractions
• Worsening gum disease



Dental X-rays help catch problems early, when treatment is simpler, less invasive, and more cost-effective.

Dental X-Rays with a Patient-First Approach

Dr. Colleen Catera has built her practice around honest communication, patient education, and modern technology.

• Her approach to dental X-rays is simple:
• Recommend imaging only when it’s clinically useful
• Use digital technology to minimize radiation
• Explain findings clearly and thoroughly
• Involve patients in every treatment decision

📍 Office Location: 1 John St, Suite 206, Babylon, NY 11702
📞 Phone: (631) 422-6901

Schedule an Appointment in Babylon, NY

If you’ve been avoiding dental care due to concerns about X-rays, you’re not alone—and modern digital technology was designed with you in mind.

Schedule an exam with Dr. Colleen Catera, DMD in Babylon, NY, and learn whether digital dental X-rays are recommended for your specific needs.

Request an Appointment: https://www.dentistbabylon.com/contact-us

Learn More About Digital Dental X-Rays: https://www.dentistbabylon.com/digital-dental-x-rays



Frequently Asked Questions About Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays are not something to fear—they’re a vital diagnostic tool that helps protect your oral health.



With modern digital dental X-ray technology, low radiation exposure, and a thoughtful, patient-first approach, Dr. Colleen Catera’s Babylon office offers safe, informed, and transparent dental imaging you can trust.