Can I tell my dentist I dont want xrays?
Legal risks Even if you have a patient sign a form stating he or she willingly refuses radiographs, no patient can give consent for the dentist to be negligent. A patient simply cannot waive their right to receive adequate care by signing a refusal for x-rays.
Why do dentists always want X-rays?
In adults, dental X-rays can be used to: Show areas of decay that may not be visible with an oral exam, especially small areas of decay between teeth. Identify decay occurring beneath an existing filling. Reveal bone loss that accompanies gum disease.
Can I refuse dental X-rays?
While dental patients have the right to refuse any treatment, including exams and x-rays, dentists must follow recommended guidelines and use his or her professional judgment in reviewing the patient’s unique situation to determine what is clinically best for the patient.
Should dental X-rays be requested before or after a dental exam?
She explained that when the dental x-rays are requested by the assistant or hygienist before the patient meets with the doctor, this can send the message that x-rays are routine for every patient and not vital for the patient’s exam. This increases the chance that the patient will refuse the x-rays.
What happens if you don’t have radiographs?
Improper diagnosis due to a lack of dental radiographs leaves the practice in a state of liability. Even if you have a patient sign a form stating he or she willingly refuses radiographs, no patient can give consent for the dentist to be negligent. A patient simply cannot waive their right to receive adequate care by signing a refusal for x-rays.
Why do people object to dental X-rays?
Dr. Tekavec lists ways dentists can deal with each one of the common objections to dental x-rays. Sometimes patients object to x-rays for unknown reasons, or simply because they feel the x-rays are simply part of standard procedure for every patient and not truly necessary in their case.