Dental X-Rays and Lead Aprons
What Changed in Texas Dental Guidelines?
Many patients have heard that lead aprons are no longer required during routine dental X-rays. That is correct, but the reason matters.
As of March 13, 2025, the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) updated its radiology rules to align with recommendations from the:
- American Dental Association (ADA)
- American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (AAOMR)
These updated guidelines reflect advances in modern digital dental imaging technology.
Why Are Lead Aprons No Longer Required for Routine Dental X-Rays?
Today’s dental X-rays use extremely low levels of radiation compared to older systems.
Modern dental imaging technology includes:
- Digital X-ray sensors
- Narrow, focused X-ray beams
- Faster image capture
- Precise positioning techniques
- Reduced scatter radiation
Current research has shown that routine lead apron use does not provide a clinically significant reduction in radiation exposure during standard dental X-rays.
Are Dental X-Rays Still Safe?
Yes.
Modern digital dental X-rays are considered very low radiation and are used only when clinically necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Dental X-rays help detect problems that may not be visible during a visual exam alone, including:
- Cavities between teeth
- Bone loss
- Infections
- Abscesses
- Impacted teeth
- Failing restorations
- Developmental concerns
Delaying needed X-rays can sometimes allow dental problems to worsen unnoticed.
Do We Still Offer Lead Aprons?
Absolutely.
Even though lead aprons are no longer required under updated Texas and national guidelines, we understand that many patients still feel more comfortable wearing one.
Patient comfort matters.
If you would like a lead apron during your dental X-rays, we are happy to provide one.
What Has NOT Changed
What has not changed is our commitment to:
- Patient safety
- Conservative care
- Appropriate X-ray use
- Modern technology
- Patient comfort and communication
Same safety standards.
Same patient-first approach.
Just updated guidelines based on current science and technology.
Same patient-first approach.
Just updated guidelines based on current science and technology.