Learn More About Radiographs (X-Rays)
Radiographs (X-Rays) are a vital and necessary part of your child’s dental diagnostic process. Without them, certain dental conditions can and will be missed.
Dental X-rays (Radiographs) for Kids
Dental Kidz Club incorporates high-resolution digital radiographs to improve our children’s dental services. With detailed imaging, we’re better able to screen for early signs of disease, provide less-invasive care, and reduce the risk of serious orthodontic complications in the future.
Your Child’s First Dental X-rays
Usually the first time a child gets an X-ray of their tooth is by the time they’re 3 or 4, depending on their comfort level. Sometimes we’ll take an X-ray earlier, especially if it pertains to emergency care.
How Often are Radiographs Required?
Children tend to have “weaker” teeth than adults, making them more susceptible to tooth decay. For most kids, we recommend taking a set of bitewing X-rays at least once per year. If they have a high cavity risk, we may take images at every six-month checkup.
What are Bitewings?
A “bitewing” X-ray is one that shows us the upper crown portion of the back teeth. It captures the chewing surfaces and between teeth, which tend to be the areas most prone to decay. They do not, however, show the structure of the roots.
Full Mouth X-rays (Panoramic)
To evaluate your child’s tooth development, jaw growth, biting patterns, and TMJ, we will take a panoramic X-ray about every 3-5 years. “Panos” serve as an overview to evaluate any irregular tooth positioning, missing teeth, or growth concerns that could lead to orthodontic problems. We can also screen for cysts and tumors in and around the jaws.
Occlusal and PA Films
Sometimes our Inland Empire kids’ dentists need to be able to see the full root structure of a tooth. If that’s the case, we position a different type of X-ray such as a PA (for back or adult teeth) or Occlusal (for front baby teeth) to see further down in the bone.
Are X-rays Safe?
Absolutely! Our children’s dentists use digital dental X-ray equipment, which lowers radiation levels by as much as 90% compared to traditional X-rays. They’re a safe and effective way for us to help your child enjoy healthier teeth for life!
