There is concern over exposure to dental x-rays and the threat that they may pose.

Meningioma and thyroid cancer have been connected to dental x-rays, however, there is no causal relationship established and dental professionals are calling for more research.

“It’s a cautionary tale … we do know that radiation can cause tumors, and we have to be judicious with its use,” said Dr. Donald O’Rourke, an associate professor of neurosurgery at the University of Pennsylvania who was not involved in the study.

Meningiomas are the most frequently occurring tumor in the head. They are located in the meninges, the tissues covering the brain. The vast majority are “benign” – or noncancerous – but, depending on their location, could cause blindness or other serious neurological damage. Those in the skull base are more difficult to remove in their entirety. Depending on the tumor, surgery may not be required.

There is always caution against excessive radiation exposure from x-rays.