Children need dental care starting at an early age. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children first visit the dentist by the age of 12 months.
Parents often ask when their child should receive their first dental X-ray. Most children should begin receiving annual dental X-rays between the ages of four and six. Dentists may recommend more frequent X-rays if the child has a history of cavities or other significant symptoms.
How Dental X-Rays Work
An X-ray or radiograph is a diagnostic image that helps your dentist see within the teeth and beneath the gums. X-ray machines use a beam of electromagnetic radiation to take pictures of hard tissues like teeth and bones.
Today, X-rays use digital equipment that requires 80 to 90 percent less radiation than the film version you may remember from your childhood dental visits.
The first step in taking an X-ray is placing a lead apron over the child’s torso and abdomen. The apron shields the child’s developing organs from radiation. Next, the hygienist instructs the child to bite on a framework holding a small digital sensor, then steps outside the room and quickly takes the image. Most children find dental X-rays easy to tolerate, though there may be minor discomfort when taking pictures at the back of the mouth.
Unlike film X-rays, digital X-rays need no processing time. They are easier to enlarge and read. The dentist interprets the scan results and shares the findings with the parents.
Why Children Need X-Rays
X-rays primarily help dentists detect signs of tooth decay. However, they perform many functions.
The following symptoms may indicate the need for an X-ray:
- Toothache
- Signs of decay
- Signs of infection
- Tooth alignment or eruption issues
- Dental or facial trauma
X-rays also detect dental abscesses, cysts, bone disease, and other abnormalities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental X-Rays
Are dental X-rays safe for my child?
Today’s digital X-rays are safer than film X-rays since they use significantly less radiation. Even very young children exhibiting symptoms can undergo an X-ray.
If my child does not have cavities, why do they need X-rays?
X-rays are not just for cavities. They can detect emerging conditions like cysts and infections before they become difficult to treat. They can also reveal whether a child may need orthodontic care later in life.
Contact Tender Smiles 4 Kids
If your child needs pediatric dental care, including X-rays, please contact us at one of our Central Jersey locations. We would gladly explain how and why we use X-rays to treat your child. Please schedule a consultation with our dentists and meet you and your child.