Dental X-Rays for Kids
Why are Dental X-Rays Important?
Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art digital x0ray technology. By offering this, we can reduce the amount of radiation by up to 80 percent compared to traditional film x-rays.
X-rays provide valuable information that cannot be observed during an examination. The use of x-rays can help rule out or determine a diagnosis seen below the surface such as:
- Tooth abscesses or cysts
- Bone loss
- Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous
- Decay between teeth
- Developmental abnormalities
- Poor tooth and root positions
- Problems inside a tooth and below the gum line
Discovering these types of things can allow us to act quickly and early in our treatment to prevent pain and expense.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Kids?
The presence of a low level of radiation in x-rays is safe, but we take every precaution to reduce unnecessary exposure. X-rays are not required at every visit. We will speak with you when your children are due for bite-wing x-rays (taken of the teeth biting together). If we feel other x-rays are needed and beneficial we will discuss this with you as well.
Does my child need the x-ray unit in their mouth?
Traditionally, the x-ray film provides the best diagnostic picture. We use an x-ray plate, like a piece of film, and we find that this is more comfortable and well tolerated by our younger patients.
We also offer an extraoral x-ray option, in which we can take a similar x-ray without using the films in the mouth.
When does my child need x-rays?
We take our x-rays according to the guidelines published by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. These guidelines can be found here.
What are you looking for when you take x-rays?
Generally, we are looking for any kinds of bony pathology associated with the teeth, bone, and jaws. We are also able to see if there are any cavities developing in between the teeth. Cavities in between teeth tend to spread from teeth to teeth and spread quickly resulting in pain and abscesses of teeth.