X-Ray Use and Safety

How Often Should a Child Have Dental X-ray Films?

Since every child is unique, the need for dental X-ray films varies from child to child. Films are taken only after reviewing your child’s health, and only when they are likely to yield information that a visual examination cannot. In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. They are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. They are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends X-ray examinations every six months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. Children with low risk of tooth decay require X-rays less frequently.

Why Should X-ray Films Be Taken If My Child Has Never Had a Cavity?

X-ray films detect much more than cavities. For example, X-rays may be needed to survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone diseases, 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. If dental problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable and affordable.

Will X-rays Be Taken At Every Appointment?

No. Our office, acting in accord with guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommend X-rays only when necessary to protect your child's dental health. Therefore, the frequency of X-ray films is determined by your child’s individual needs.

How Safe Are Dental X-rays?

Our office is particularly careful to minimize the exposure of child patients to radiation. With contemporary safeguards, like low-radiation digital x-rays used at our office, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small. In fact, dental X-rays represent a far smaller risk than undetected and untreated dental problems.

How Will My Child Be Protected From X-ray Exposure?