As a parent, navigating the facts and fiction of what you hear on the internet, in parent blogs, and from others can be difficult. It can blur the lines between what you know to be good for your child, and what others believe is right. Finding the truth among all of this can be difficult, especially when it comes to hot topics like dental X-rays for children. While some deem dental X-rays unsafe, professional organizations and pediatric dental experts acknowledge how crucial they are to ensure smiles develop properly and without complication. Below, you can learn the truth about dental X-rays to make an informed decision that is best for your child.
What are Dental X-Rays & How Do They Work?
X-ray imaging has come a long way, even since the early 2000s. In the past, the images were captured on film, which not only took awhile to develop, but they also were not of great quality. Today, most dentists utilize digital X-ray imaging, which works similarly to the camera application on your phone. All the dentist has to do is snap a picture in order for it to appear on a computer so they can review it. Granted, though, the photo is taken with a giant tube instead of your phone! The quality is much better, and no chemicals or development period is necessary.
X-ray machines are able to emit electromagnetic radiation that passes through most objects, like the body, allowing a photo to be taken of the organs, bones, and other structures underlying the skin. However, parents are sometimes concerned about the radiation their children will be exposed to.
Organizations like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), American Dental Association, and Food and Drug Administration recommend dental radiographs to help diagnose and monitor the smile, as well as make treatment plans for dental issues affecting children. This is because the amount of radiation exposure is very minimal. In fact, children are exposed to much more radiation playing outside in nature than taking one or two dental X-rays each year.
Why are Children’s Dental X-Rays Important?
Pediatric dentists, as well as the AAPD, typically recommend that children receive an X-ray every six to 12 months, depending on a variety of risk factors, in order to identify and prevent common dental health conditions. Some of the problems that can be spotted on these diagnostic images include:
- Decay
- If there is enough space for all incoming teeth
- Identifying whether all permanent teeth are present and can properly grow in
- Abscesses, or tooth infections
- Wisdom teeth development
- Abnormalities, such as cysts
- Tumors
Your child’s pediatric dentist in Leesburg will only prescribe dental radiographs whenever it is necessary as well, so if you have any concerns about the process, do not hesitate to ask so you can better understand their decision. Rest assured, they are following strict standards and recommendations of professional organizations that conduct ample research and studies, making sure that every child in their care will receive safe, high-quality dentistry.
About the Author
Dr. Vani Takiar, better known as “Agent T” by her patients, is a dedicated and knowledgeable board-certified pediatric dentist, which means she has completed rigorous training and testing to demonstrate her expertise in her specialty. She has invested in the latest dental technology as well, like digital X-rays and impressions, to not only make her detectives have a more comfortable experience, but to also provide thorough examinations and treatments. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Tooth Clues’ website or call 571-799-0559.