In 2004, the guidelines for routine dental radiographs were revised by the Department of Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration and the American Dental Association. These groups recommended that patients at a low risk of chronic diseases such as cavities and periodontal disease receive less frequent exposure to dental x-rays.

 

Despite this consensus among experts, many dental plans still cover x-rays at more frequent intervals. Groups with standard coverage can lower their costs by 0.5% by reducing their x-ray benefit to Delta Dental’s recommended levels: bitewing x-rays one time per 12-month period, and full-mouth x-rays once each 5 years for all patients.

 

The recommendation for x-ray frequency is part of the emerging science of evidence-based dentistry, or EBD. EBD is a set of principles and methods intended to ensure to the greatest extent possible, clinical decisions, guidelines and other types of policies are based on and consistent with good evidence of effectiveness and benefit. To learn more about EBD and other ways Delta Dental is on the forefront of evidence-based plan designs, call your insurance agent, or contact our sales department at 800-236-3713. Get the full story on the benefits of reduced exposure to dental x-rays by downloading a copy of our white paper.

 

Reduce x-ray frequency: save money and protect health (pdf)