When to Have an X-Ray Done For Your Child at a Family Dentist

One of the concerns parents often have about their children is the need to get a dental x-ray at the family dentist. The worry stems from the safety of x-rays and radiation exposure. Some parents think x-rays are not required until the child has permanent teeth. Continue reading to know when to take your child for x-rays.

The need for x-rays at the dentist

The need and frequency for teeth x-rays depend on the child’s age and how susceptible they are to tooth decay or cavities. Some dental professionals recommend that parents take their children to the family dentist for x-rays once two molars touch to detect the presence of decay between teeth. Regarding the frequency, the suggestion is that x-rays be taken only when it is effective, decided by the family dentist.

A child with no history of active tooth cavities can get x-rays every one to three years, depending on if the dentist suspects signs of a problem. If the child is prone to getting cavities, the dentist may suggest taking the child’s x-rays as frequently as six months for some time. During a dental appointment, parents will know if any scan is necessary, based on the result of their checkup.

The importance of children dental x-rays

Some parents may not see the need to take their child for dental x-rays of baby teeth, but it is an important part of proper oral care. The condition of the child’s baby teeth set the path for the incoming permanent teeth. The dentist will take the child’s x-ray so they can get adequate information to address, improve, and maintain the child’s oral health. X-rays provide details such as:

• The teeth that are yet to erupt, their positions and their size
• Detect the lack of teeth or extra teeth before they come in
• Detect decay, cracks, and other issues with the teeth that are only visible under x-ray
• Diagnoses oral infections or bone diseases
• Ascertain the severity and progress of dental injuries
• A tool for planning teeth straightening treatments, if required
• Ascertain the development of incoming permanent teeth

Parents need to take their child to the dentist for dental x-rays when necessary so that the dentist can diagnose and treat any oral issue that could quickly worsen without prompt treatment.

The safety of dental x-rays

Nowadays, the radiation exposure from dental x-rays has reduced remarkably. The newer x-ray machines can produce highly usable images of the teeth while reducing radiation emission by up to 80-90 percent. Parents can ask the dentist about the kind of x-ray device in the office. Rest assured, the dental professional will take adequate precautions to limit radiation exposure.

In summary

At the dental office, parents will meet an experienced family dentist who will describe details of the x-ray procedure and inform them of the safety protocols. The child will be put at ease to ensure they have a positive experience of the appointment. Book a consultation appointment to get started.

Request an appointment here: https://www.gatewaydental.org or call Gateway Dental Dr. William Swann DDS at (301) 485-7492 for an appointment in our Bowie office.

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