Frequent Exposure to Dental X Rays May Lead To Brain Tumors

New studies have led to a conclusion that there exists a link between brain tumor and dental x-rays.

Meningioma starts with the meninges, that covers the brain. This type of tumor accounts for approximately 33 percent of brain tumors in the United States. And the most consistent outside risk factor that causes meningioma is exposure to ionizing radiation, which is common in dental x-rays.

Researchers from the School of medicine at Yale University in New Haven compared 1,433 patients who were diagnosed with meningioma, the most common brain tumor in the US, to a group of 1,350 matched controls.

The study found that people who had a history of frequent dental x-rays at a young age have an increased risk of suffering from meningioma, as compared to the controls.  

Head researcher Dr. Elizabeth Claus said:

"...Although dental x-rays are an important tool in maintaining good oral health, efforts to moderate exposure to this form of imaging may be of benefit to some patients."

However, Claus does not refer to the dental x-rays of today.

"It is important to note that the dental x-rays performed today use a much lower dose of radiation than in the past." Claus added.

Clause and her team pointed out that dentists should first weigh the risks versus the benefits when performing dental x-rays on patients.