X-rays

Q: What are X-rays used for?

A: X-rays reveal problems that we can not see with the naked eye. X-rays are used to determine the position of the teeth including those that haven’t erupted, as well as decay that begins between teeth.

Q: How often are x-rays taken?

A: We only take x-rays when indicated or needed. In our younger patients we feel that bitewings, the cavity detecting x-rays, are needed every year. Once a child has their permanent teeth we typically take bitewings every one and half or two years. We do feel though that every child is unique and the indication and need for x-rays should be evaluated on an individual basis.

Q: How safe are dental X-rays?

With contemporary safeguards, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small. In fact, dental X-rays represent a far smaller risk than undetected and untreated dental problems. In our office, we are careful to minimize the exposure of children to radiation.

Q: What safeguards are used to protect my child from X-ray exposure?

Lead body aprons and shields help protect your child. Our digital x-ray unit filters out unnecessary X-rays and restricts the X-ray beam to the area of interest.

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