A new study published in the American Cancer Society has linked brain tumors to certain kinds of dental x-rays.
Meningiomas, the tumors associated with x-rays, are almost always benign but can still cause serious problems for a patient.
In the study, those who have participated in a bitewing X-ray - where the patient holds the film in place by biting down on a tab, were twice as likely to have the brain tumor than those who had never had the form of dental X-ray.
Researchers discovered that those who had bitewing exams every year or more often were even more likely to develop meningiomas - non-cancerous tumors.
Additionally, lead researcher Dr. Elizabeth Claus of the Yale School of Medicine found an increased risk of meningioma associated with panorex exams which are take outside of the mouth. The less common X-ray method delivers a panoramic view of the full set of top and bottom teeth, and contributes to the risk of meningiomas.
Those who had bitewing or panorex X-rays when they were younger than 10 years old were at risk almost five times more than those who did not.
A meningioma is a tumor that develops in the membrane that envelopes the brain and central nervous system known as the meninges. The tumor can reach sizes larger than a baseball and can cause headaches, vision problems, and the loss of speech and motor control.
The new information has researchers criticizing the amount of X-rays conducted in dental offices today.
"The study highlights the need for increasing awareness regarding the optimal use of dental X-rays, which unlike many risk factors, is modifiable," said Claus, reported New York Daily News.
"We don't want people to think every X-ray is a loaded gun," the researcher continued. "They are important for dental health. But less exposure is better if possible."
Claus, also a professor at the Yale School of Public Health and a neurosurgeon at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, noted that little is known about risk factors surrounding meningioma because the tumor was only just added the brain tumor registries in the U.S. in 2004.
It is recommended by the American Dental Association that children have X-rays about every one to two years, adolescents - every year and a half to three years, and adults - every two to three years.
Claus said that she does not want the new study creating fear.
"Don't panic," she said, according to The Washington Post. "And don't not go to the dentist. But do look unto the guidelines and talk with your dentist."
Claus added, "It's worth having that conversation."