For Parents
X-ray Use and Safety
Q: How often should a child have dental X-ray films?
A: Since every child is unique, the need for dental X-ray
films varies from child to child. Films are taken only after a complete
review of your child's health, and only when they are likely to yield
information that a visual exam cannot.
In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. They are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends X-ray examinations every six months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. Children with a low risk of tooth decay require X-rays less frequently.
Q: Why should X-ray films be taken if my child has never
had a cavity?
A: X-ray films detect much more than cavities. For example,
X-rays may be needed to survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone diseases,
evaluate the results of an injury, or plan orthodontic treatment.
X-rays allow dentists to diagnose and treat health conditions that
cannot be detected during a clinical examination. If dental problems
are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable and affordable.
Q: Will X-ray films be taken routinely?
A: No. X-ray films are recommended only when necessary to
protect your childīs dental health. The frequency of X-ray films is
determined by your childīs individual needs.
Q: How safe are dental X-rays?
A: Pediatric dentists are particularly careful to minimize
the exposure of child patients to radiation. With contemporary safeguards,
the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is
extremely small. The risk is negligible. In fact, dental X-rays represent
a far smaller risk than an undetected and untreated dental problem.
Q: How will my child be protected from X-ray exposure?
A: Lead body aprons and shields will protect your child.
Today's equipment filters out unnecessary X-rays and restricts the
X-ray beam to the area of interest. High-speed film and proper shielding
assure that your child receives a minimal amount of radiation exposure.
