Pediatric dental x-rays enable pediatric dentists to keep an eye on the oral health of their young patients. Dentists can use periodic X-rays to catch dental problems in their earliest stages. They can also use X-rays to confirm and ensure that children’s jaws are developing as they should. This brief FAQ covers the most common concerns that parents tend to have about pediatric dental X-rays.
Visual exams can only reveal so much, and dentists must use other means to see between the teeth and below the gumline. Note that dentists only use pediatric dental X-rays if the need arises. They will keep X-ray tests to a minimum, saving them for specific preliminary diagnoses or periodic monitoring. Here is what to expect from the X-ray procedure:
Exposure to X-rays only takes a few seconds, making it easy for the child to stay calm. Dentists allow and often encourage guardians to be in the room with their child. Caregivers can prepare toddlers for the procedure by making a game of it at home. Here are a few answers to questions that explain kids’ X-rays in more detail.
An X-ray is a tool that helps with diagnosis and monitoring. Dentists will use pediatric X-rays to:
The frequency of subsequent X-rays will depend on the results of the first set of images.
It depends on the health of the young patient’s mouth. Children with a high risk of tooth decay will need annual X-rays to monitor their teeth. The same goes for children with developmental problems. The dentist may require more frequent imaging for serious oral health issues. Dentists prefer to take full or panoramic X-rays of their patient’s mouth once every three years.
No, it only takes a few seconds and a low-intensity X-ray beam to take an image. Also, modern machines can focus X-ray beams to a specific location. Dentists will use lead aprons and throat guards to cover the child’s torso.
The X-ray machine consists of two parts: the generator and the detector. The generator produces the X-rays, and the detector captures them as they pass through the body. The images are then presented on a computer screen.
The generator produces the X-rays by firing electrons at a target material. The target material is usually made of tungsten or another heavy metal. When the electrons hit the target material, they release energy in the form of X-rays.
Several safety precautions are taken during an X-ray. The patient is always covered with a lead apron to protect them from the radiation. The room is also typically shielded so no one else in the room is exposed to the radiation. Finally, the person operating the X-ray machine will stand behind a lead shield to protect themselves.
There are many uses for pediatric X-rays. They can be used to diagnose cavities and bite issues and check developing teeth underneath gum tissues. X-rays can also be used to examine the heart, kidneys, and other organs.
If a child is scheduled for an X-ray, the parents should ask the pediatric dentist any questions that they have about the procedure. They should also tell the child to stay still during the X-ray so the images are clear.
Our pediatric dentist loves working with children, which is why they spent the extra years specializing in kids’ dentistry. They make it a point to only use pediatric dental X-rays if and when medical imaging is necessary.
If you are looking for comprehensive dental healthcare for your child, get in touch. Our dentist will be happy to monitor and maintain your child’s oral health for the long term.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dental X-Rays in Middletown, NY.
Teaching your child to practice good oral hygiene basics is essential for setting them up for lifelong oral health. Here are four important ways children can maintain good oral health. Pediatric dentists recommend kids brush their teeth at least twice daily for two minutes each session. Brushing removes food particles left behind after eating and…
Oral hygiene basics are the foundation of a child’s oral health. This article will review how practicing oral hygiene basics will keep your child’s teeth healthy so they can serve them well for a lifetime.One of the most important aspects of dental hygiene is brushing regularly. Pediatric dentists will recommend brushing a minimum of twice…
Brushing and flossing are essential oral hygiene basics that help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. While many parents focus on teaching their children to pay careful attention to their teeth and gums, they often neglect the tongue. In reality, keeping the tongue clean is vital because it is an integral part of your child's…
Anyone familiar with oral hygiene basics knows that pediatric dentists recommend brushing twice per day — once in the morning and once at night. However, you may not know why. Why is once not enough? After all, experts recommend flossing only once a day. How is brushing your teeth different? This article will explore why…
Teaching your child to practice good oral hygiene basics is essential for setting them up for lifelong oral health. Here are four important ways children can maintain good oral health. Pediatric dentists recommend kids brush their teeth at least twice daily for two minutes each session. Brushing removes food particles left behind after eating and…
Oral hygiene basics are the foundation of a child’s oral health. This article will review how practicing oral hygiene basics will keep your child’s teeth healthy so they can serve them well for a lifetime.One of the most important aspects of dental hygiene is brushing regularly. Pediatric dentists will recommend brushing a minimum of twice…