How often should you have dental X-rays?

Part 1 

In my perspective, I think the frequency recommendation and coverage by insurance of two annual dental x-rays is not safe. First, growing children are susceptible to accumulative health effects of x-rays such as panoramic, periapical and Bitewing which emit potentially harmful radiations. Having insurance coverage does not translate to mandatory processes, but x-rays should be taken when necessary to prevent and detect unexplained gum diseases and tooth decay. Regulatory agencies such as FDA and ADA have developed guidelines on x-ray frequencies which consider a child’s oral hygiene and health, associated risks and stage of development. Many and regular radiations may lead to cumulative processes which may develop to cancer, acute lymphoid leukemia and brain tumors such as meningioma. Even though the dental x-rays harbor little radiations compared to environmental exposures, it is important to regulate the frequency; therefore an x-ray should be requested after a comprehensive clinical exam to determine necessity. 

Part 2 

In this context, I would choose PBDE-free non-flame retardant furniture because of the associated health and environmental concerns with the parent chemical. Particles of the furniture, might find their way into our body through ingestion or inhalation which may highly predispose developing children. Compounds such as decaBDE have shown increased correlation to development of liver cancer in various studies depending on the dose, duration and route of exposure and health state alongside other cultural variables e.g. age, sex and dietary practices ( Linares, Bellés & Domingo , 2015). Bio cumulative Polybrominated Diphenylethers toxicity in body tissues such as milk and blood may lead to thyroid disruption, cancer and neurological damages. According to Centers for Disease Control (CDC), regulatory bodies such as FDA, EPA, CPSC AND OSHA have set policies and regulatory guidelines on PBDE-containing substances due to their attributed environmental and public health concerns. 

Reference 

Linares, V., Bellés, M., & Domingo, J. L. (2015). Human exposure to PBDE and critical evaluation of health hazards.  Archives of toxicology ,  89 (3), 335-356.