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X-rays are an important part of dentistry. They are used to detect cavities and other underlying oral conditions for patients of all ages, including children.

Certain parents are concerned about having their kids get X-rays as they are exposed to radiation during the procedure. In this article, our team at Dental Specialists of North Florida in Saint Augustine and Palm Coast, Florida, explains why X-rays and particularly digital X-rays are safe for kids.

When Is a Dental X-Ray Required?

X-rays are not only diagnostic aids but also preventive aids. They are used to monitor tooth eruption and rule out dental issues like cavities, tooth mobility, dental or facial trauma, swelling, presence of foreign objects, and impacted teeth.

Apart from that, X-rays are also used to analyze dentofacial development, unexplained absence of teeth, growth abnormalities, oral involvement in suspected systemic diseases, and TMJ dysfunctions.

X-rays are recommended every six months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. Children with a low risk of tooth decay require X-rays only once every 12 to 36 months depending on their signs and symptoms.

Safety Guidelines

Radiology procedures abide by the guidelines of the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. 

X-rays for kids are recommended only after a thorough clinical examination and consideration of the child's medical and dental histories. The ALARA principle, which is an acronym of 'as low as reasonably achievable', is followed on radiation dosage.

Below are some of the safety measures adopted by dentists:

• Fast image receptors compatible with the diagnostic task are used to minimize the dose of radiation.
• Collimation of the beam to the size of the receptor is ensured and proper film exposure and processing techniques are practiced. 
• Exposure parameters are set as slow as possible and exposure time is reduced.
• Protective aprons and thyroid collars are used to prevent unnecessary exposure to other parts of the body.
• The number of images is limited to the minimum necessary to obtain essential diagnostic information.

To learn more about the safety of X-rays for children, call Dental Specialists of North Florida at (904) 794-1000 or (386) 986-1000. You can also visit our branches located at 10 Saint Johns Medical Park Drive, Suite C, Saint Augustine, FL 32086, and 3 Cypress Branch Way # 107, Palm Coast, FL 32164.