PROCEDURES
X-Rays
Dental X-rays detect much more than cavities. They may be taken to survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone disease, evaluate the results of an injury, or plan orthodontic treatment. X-rays allow dentists to diagnose and treat conditions that cannot be detected during a clinical examination.
How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Our office uses Digital Radiography. This form of computerized radiography uses a standard dental x-ray generator as its radiation source.
An intra-oral sensor that is placed in the mouth collects the image. The benefit of digital radiography is that it reduces radiation exposure 80-90% compared to traditional radiograph which means less exposure and less risk.
Frequency of X-Rays
X-rays are recommended only when necessary to evaluate and monitor your child’s oral health. In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. Their teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. The frequency of X-rays is prescribed by your pediatric dentist and based on your child’s individual needs. We follow the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s guidelines based on your child’s caries risk assessment when taking cavity detecting X-rays at your child’s hygiene appointment.