Is anyone else concerned about yearly dental x-rays?

[amcal]

I just called to make a dental appointment and was told I'd have to come in for x-rays first then they'd schedule a cleaning. First - this is strange - I've always just done both at the same time. But then I tell her that I just had x-rays last year and for that matter every year before that. I tell her I'm not crazy about having x-rays again but she says that the dr will insist before I can schedule a cleaning. Anyway, this got me thinking..... What is the purpose of yearly dental x-rays in a healthy adult? What are they looking for that can't be seen during an exam. Is anyone else concerned about having x-ray's taken of their head every year or am I just crazy?

[Marlena]

I have a history of cancer, that was located on my head under my chin, so NO, I do not have yearly x-rays. Tell them that you're concerned about the radiation, and would prefer to have them done only every 2 or 3 years. If they still insist, then you can always find another dentist if you want.

[malamamama]

They can find infections thru x-rays that aren't obvious to the eye or even causing problems. However, if you just want a cleaning, then go where you can get just that. There is a lot of info on the dental board archives about x-rays too.

[daylily]

If they won't let you refuse the X-ray, then find a new dentist. It's YOUR body, and you have the right to decide what is done to it. I always refuse them, and don't let my kids get them either. DH's brother died of a brain tumor at 36--of course I don't know that it was caused by dental x-rays--but better safe than sorry.