Parents want to do everything they can to protect their children. Is there a risk for them to get dental X-rays? You know it’s important for their dentist to be informed about their smile, but some clarity on the situation sure would put your mind at ease about the use of radiation. While dental technology is obviously more advanced than when you were little, keep reading as a pediatric dentist in Chesterfield answers the question in detail.
What Is a Dental X-ray?
As your little one grows up, so does their smile. Since a child’s mouth is constantly changing, a visual inspection alone is not enough to tell your dentist everything they need to know.
Dental X-rays take images of the teeth, gum, and bones. They help the dentist spot damage and infection that are lingering underneath the surface, such as cavities and periodontal issues. It’s critical to correct any problems as soon as they arise to prevent any problems from worsening.
Are Dental X-rays Safer for Children Nowadays?
Rest assured – today’s dental X-rays are safer than ever before! Most dental offices now use digital X-rays, which have 80 percent less radiation than conventional film ones. In fact, the amount of radiation your child is exposed to is roughly equivalent to what they get from the sun, minerals in the soil, and appliances in your home.
Their dentist may also use lead aprons during imaging to protect your child’s body from any radiation. Plus, taking X-rays is a quick process.
The Benefits of Dental X-Rays
The advantages of utilizing digital X-rays far outweigh the risks of minimal exposure to radiation by:
- Showing areas of decay not visible with an oral exam
- Determining if there’s enough space in the mouth for incoming teeth
- Assessing whether your child is losing their primary teeth fast enough to leave room for permanent teeth
- Checking for the development of wisdom teeth
- Revealing development abnormalities, such as cysts and certain types of tumors
A technological benefit is that they instantly produce manipulatable high-quality digital images in the computer system. Immediate viewing allows the dentist to zoom in or adjust the exposure to spot even the tiniest problem. Since the X-rays are digital, they can easily be saved to your electronic patient file. Thanks to technology, there’s no risk of losing your child’s dental records!
As you can see, dental X-rays are nothing to fear. A thorough exam of your child’s mouth is necessary to ensure they maintain good oral health for a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. Homer Sedighi earned his dental doctorate at Washington University in St. Louis and followed with a two-year residency in pediatric dentistry at the University of Rochester. Now a board-certified pediatric dentist, he is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. During a checkup and cleaning for your child, Dr. Sedighi can include digital X-rays, an oral cancer screening, dental sealants, fluoride treatment, and more. Schedule an appointment on his website or by calling (636) 777-7777.