Dental X-Rays for Your Child

X-rays are an important tool that a dentist uses in order to view and diagnose any dental problems beneath the gum line or inside a tooth. X-rays provide Dr. Naomi Lane with a detailed picture of the teeth as well as the surrounding bones and tissues in the mouth.

We have many parents who have concerns or questions regarding childhood dental X-rays. Below are a few of the most frequently asked questions and the answers to these questions. We want to make sure the parents of our patients are confident and comfortable with their children receiving dental X-rays at our office.

When should my child get his or her first X-ray?

Most children get their first dental X-rays between the ages of 4-6. These X-rays are used to view the adult teeth in relation to the baby teeth and to make sure they’re growing incorrectly. Additionally, X-rays may be taken to diagnose a dental problem if your child is showing symptoms.

Why would my child need a dental X-ray?

There are a few reasons why your child may need to receive a dental X-ray, including:

• Tooth decay isn’t always visible to the naked eye, so X-rays are used to find any spots of decay that may be lurking underneath dental fillings or between the teeth.
• Bone-related problems, especially issues with the roots of the teeth, can usually only be found with the help of a dental X-ray.
• Dental X-rays can be used in preparation for orthodontic treatment to determine any problems with spacing in your child’s mouth or the way the adult teeth are growing in.
• Lastly, if your child needs to have a tooth extracted or any other complicated dental procedure, an X-ray will serve as a map for the dentist to anticipate any potential issues.

Should I be concerned about radiation exposure?

The answer to this question is no. The amount of radiation your child is exposed to during a single set of dental X-rays is very minimal. We also make sure each child wears a lead apron to protect their bodies from most of the radiation. Your child’s health and safety is our number one priority, so please know that there’s no reason for concern!

If you have any additional questions about childhood dental X-rays or to make an appointment for your child to receive a dental cleaning or exam with Dr. Lane, please contact Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry today. Our child’s dental office is located in Greensboro, NC.