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As a parent, one of your primary concerns is the oral health of your child, which is why it’s so important to bring him or her in for regular visits to your pediatric dentist in North Dallas. Still, you have concerns about one of the aspects of these appointments – dental X-Rays. You’re wondering, “Are they safe for my child?” As you continue reading, your local dentist provides answers to your questions.

What are X-Rays and Why are They Important?

One of the great tools your pediatric dentist has at his or her disposal is the dental X-Ray. It provides visual images of areas that would otherwise be impossible to see. Thus, your child is better protected from harmful conditions that could be developing silently. These images also allow your dentist to more accurately pre-plan treatments to ensure more safety and effectiveness.

Still, though, you’re concerned about how safe these pictures are for your child. Can they cause any harm? Are the benefits they offer worth the risk?

Are Dental X-Rays Safe?

The reason that X-Rays tend to raise red flags is that they use a small amount of radiation to produce their probing images of the oral cavity. It’s comforting to know, then, that with modern technology, the practice of capturing the images of your child’s mouth is much safer than it was in years past. In fact, the most common X-Ray – the bitewing, which captures the molars, is no more dangerous than what your child is exposed to on a daily basis just in the environment.

Furthermore, with the growing use of digital X-Rays, your child is exposed to up to 80 percent less radiation than the traditional method. Still, your dentist will take special precautions to be as safe as possible. Thus, your little one will have a lead apron with a unique thyroid collar draped over him or her for added protection.

How Often Should X-Rays be Taken?

Because children are generally a higher risk-group for cavities, X-Rays are even more important for them to take. The common rule of thumb among professionals is to have these done every six months at their preventive care visits. For very low-risk children, though, these pictures can be captured less frequently.

It’s important to keep in mind that these images help to fulfill one of the most intuitive desires of a parent – to protect the child, like we mentioned earlier. Thus, it’s important to work with a dentist who takes the necessary precautions to make the process as safe as possible.

To get your little one on the path to improved oral health, reach out to your children’s dentist in North Dallas to schedule a visit today.
About the Author

Dr. Merila Atarodi began her dental career as a general dentist and later went on to complete a two-year residency in Pediatric Dentistry at Eastman Institute for Oral Health. A board-certified pediatric dentist, she enjoys working with younger patients and helping them get the best start to their oral health, so they can flourish in the years to come. Additionally, Dr. Atarodi is a member of several professional organizations, which includes the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She practices at Children’s Dental & Orthodontics and can be reached for more information through her website.