Frequent dental x-rays may slightly raise the risk of a brain tumour, according to new research.
Dental x-rays are the most common artificial source of exposure to ionizing radiation, explain Dr Elizabeth Claus of Yale University, Connecticut, USA, and colleagues. This type of radiation is the top environmental risk factor for developing the form of brain tumour called meningioma.
The researchers looked at the link with dental x-rays by analysing figures on 1,433 meningioma patients aged 20 to 79 years and 1,350 similar individuals without meningioma.
The meningioma patients were more than twice as likely to have had an x-ray exam called a bitewing exam, which uses an x-ray film held in place between the teeth. Exposure on a yearly or more frequent basis was linked to nearly double the risk.
Risk of meningioma was also linked to dental exams called panorex exams, which are taken outside of the mouth. Having this type of exam below ten years old was linked to nearly five times the risk of meningioma. Having them yearly or more often was linked to three times the risk.
Full results were published in the journal Cancer yesterday (April 10).
Dr Claus said: "The study presents an ideal opportunity in public health to increase awareness regarding the optimal use of dental x-rays, which unlike many risk factors is modifiable.
"Widespread dissemination of this information allows for increased dialogue between patients and their health care providers."
Dr Paul Pharoah of Cambridge University, UK, commented: "People who have had dental x-rays do not need to worry about the health risks of those x-rays. Nevertheless, dental x-rays should only be used when there is a clear clinical need."
Dental X-rays and Risk of Meningioma. Claus, E. B. et al. Cancer April 10 2012 doi: 10.1002/cncr.26625
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