Why We No Longer Use Lead Aprons for
Dental X-Rays

At Ann Arbor’s Dentist, your safety is our top priority. As a biological and holistic dental practice, we continually review current research and update our protocols to reflect the safest, most effective care available. You may notice that we no longer use lead aprons during routine dental X-rays. This change is intentional and supported by modern science and the American Dental Association and Holistic Dental Association.

In February 2024, the American Dental Association updated its national guidelines, recommending that lead abdominal aprons and thyroid collars are no longer necessary for routine dental X-rays. This recommendation applies to all patients, including children and pregnant patients, and reflects major advances in dental imaging technology.

We utilize the lowest radiation system on the market. Modern dental X-ray systems use extremely low levels of radiation—far lower than older equipment used decades ago. Today’s technology includes:

  • Digital sensors that require minimal radiation
  • 10,000 times less than previous XRays
  • Highly focused beams that target only the tooth area
  • Advanced filtration that removes unnecessary radiation
  • We Care. Our systems are meticulously calibrated on an annual basis.

Because of this, additional shielding does not improve safety and, in some cases, may interfere with image quality.

A single digital dental X-ray exposes you to about 0.005 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation. To put that into perspective:

  • Similar to 1–2 hours of flying
  • Less than the radiation you receive from daily natural background sources over a couple of days
  • Comparable to eating approximately 40-50 bananas due to natural potassium
  • Dental X-ray exposure is thousands of times below levels associated with health risk

Dental X-rays are considered safe during pregnancy when clinically necessary. The radiation dose is extremely low, the beam is focused only on the mouth, and the abdomen is well outside the imaging area. Current research shows no measurable risk to the fetus from modern dental X-rays.

By following updated, evidence-based guidelines, we are able to provide:

  • A more comfortable experience (no heavy apron)
  • Faster, more efficient appointments
  • Clearer images with fewer retakes
  • Care that reflects the most current science

Radiation safety remains extremely important to us. We continue to:

  • Use the lowest possible radiation dose
  • Take X-rays only when clinically necessary
  • Follow strict safety and diagnostic protocols

If you ever have questions about X-rays or your treatment, we welcome the conversation. Your comfort, trust, and health matter to us.