Dental X-Rays for Kids Are A Must

There are a number of different diseases and disorders that can start in or be detected within the mouth. It is critical that you keep your child’s teeth as healthy as possible. Having a complete set of dental x-rays is a great way to help safeguard your child’s dental health.

Common Uses

Dental x-rays assist with detecting or viewing a few different things, including:

• The growth of teeth
• Cavities or injuries between teeth
• Gum or bone disease
• Mouth infections

Different Types

Though high radiation exposure is not healthy, low exposure is generally not an issue. When the x-ray equipment is utilized correctly and with proper precautions in place, it can achieve its intended goal with minimal risk to the recipient of the radiation. A qualified dentist and dental assistant will know how to target the intended area in the mouth and how to perform the procedure as quickly as possible. Combined with the use of a lead body apron, the child will receive limited exposure to radiation.

There are a few different low radiation options:

• Bitewing x-rays: This x-ray is also called the cavity detecting x-ray because it can show areas between the teeth and help the dentist detect even very small cavities. It is only needed after the back teeth have grown in.

• Periapical x-rays: To view clusters of two or three teeth at a time to check for adult teeth that are below baby teeth and to check gum health, this is a great option.

• Orthodontic x-rays: When the doctor is trying to decide the best treatment method for correcting tooth alignment issues, this x-ray is used to examine the jaw bone in relation to the skull.

• Panoramic x-rays: These low radiation x-rays for kids do not require a child to hold a film between the teeth, and they produce an image of all teeth. It should be noted that the child does have to be able to sit still for 12 to 18 seconds for the procedure to be completed.

• Occlusal x-rays: Another way to view most of the teeth on one film is to utilize this x-ray.

In deciding the best option for your child, consider all of your dentist options. An easy way to do this is to perform an internet search for “kids’ dental offices near me.” Once you’ve selected the best kids dentist in Pennington NJ or one near you, have the doctor explain which method he or she plans to choose and the reasoning behind it. With you both on board with the treatment process, you can develop a plan to have your child on the road to healthy teeth and healthy living.