"In this situation, I would first commend the patient for having the courage to speak up and ask questions so that they can make an informed decision on what they feel is best for their health. In my response, I would be respectful and empathetic to their concerns. I would provide recommendations and facts from credible sources like the Dental Health Society or World Health Organisation, so that they would trust the information. In my conversation, I would acknowledge their concerns and share that x-rays are among the safest and most reliable imaging technologies available today. I would reassure them that we're trained in the safe use of x-rays and we use protective aprons that block over 90% of exposure, which is less exposure than from other radioactive medical imaging technologies and natural sources. I would further explain the benefits versus the risks, especially if they were having tooth pain or other conditions that may not be accurately diagnosed and treated without an x-ray. Ultimately, I would do my best to educate them; however, the final decision would be theirs to make."
