Growing smiles hold surprises, so dentists need a way to see what lies beneath the surface. Dental X-rays are the answer, but many parents, including you, may have reservations. Are they safe for children, or should you be concerned? It’s natural to wonder how or if these radiographs have changed over the years, but the good news is they have! Discover the advantages of digital X-rays and how they help your child’s dentist detect and diagnose dental issues more accurately, keeping young smiles healthy.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?
Absolutely! Modern technology makes dental X-rays safer for all smiles because they are digital. Instead of traditional radiographs that require a dark room to develop film, newer methods are sent to a computer for quicker analysis.
Discovered in the 1890s, it once took dentists 25 minutes to capture a single X-ray. This meant more exposure to dangerous radiation. Fortunately, advances in the field mean digital X-rays emit considerably less radiation (up to 90%), and team members use lead aprons and thyroid collars to safely shield your child throughout the process.
Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?
Yes, because not all problems exist above the gumline. Dentists need help seeing areas of your child’s mouth that aren’t visible, so X-rays make that possible. Of course, most pediatric dental professionals don’t require them at each visit.
Your child’s oral health ultimately determines how often they need digital X-rays. If they are high risk for cavities, etc., they may need them more than once a year. However, if they have generally healthy teeth, they may only be required annually.
These high-resolution images help dentists:
- Detect cavities, including those that exist between teeth
- Monitor tooth eruption and baby teeth falling out
- Identify cysts and other abnormalities early
- Determine if an infection exists inside a tooth or the root
- Examine whether wisdom teeth are impacted and, if so, whether they are angled incorrectly
- Identify if a bite issue is present
Dental X-rays are a pediatric dentist’s superpower, giving them a clearer picture of your child’s overall smile and oral health. If they need this kind of imaging at their next visit, trust their team to do everything necessary to keep them safe and comfortable.
About the Author
Dr. Adam Preece is a board-certified pediatric dentist who earned his dental degree at The Ohio State University. He completed a two-year pediatric dentistry residency at Women and Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, NY. As one of three dentists at The Dental Specialists Pediatric Dentistry, he uses dental X-rays to visualize what lies beneath your child’s gumline, so he can clearly identify and explain any issues that require treatment. Unsure about the safety of this kind of imaging? Visit our website or call (972) 309-9992 to schedule an appointment.