Having concerns regarding your child getting an x-ray of any kind is completely normal. You worry about their risk of exposure to radiation and its effects. Wanting to know more about why your child needs x-ray imaging may very well be a factor in whether you give consent or not. Digital radiographs are useful, essential resources that dentists use to detect dental issues and formulate treatment plans. Let’s see why it’s critical to have your child’s teeth x-rayed.

Show Tooth Decay in Areas not Visible With an Oral Exam

Cavities tend to develop in areas between the teeth that a dentist cannot see visually. “Bitewing” dental x-rays can detect cavities early in these hard to reach areas, while they are small and serious damage can be prevented.

Examine Bone Height

Digital radiographs examine bone height and quality around the teeth. Though not common in children, bone loss can result in teeth becoming mobile and even cause teeth loss. Essentially, monitoring the height of your child’s bone is a good preventative measure that will keep your child’s mouth healthy.  

Allow Complete Inspection of Your Child’s Entire Tooth & Structure

The root of the tooth is embedded in the jaw, and it anchors the tooth in its bony socket below the gum line where it is invisible. A specific tooth can have a serious problem associated with it, such as abscess, trauma, or sensitivity. An x-ray is useful in capturing an image of the entire tooth, along with the periapical area.

Wisdom Teeth Check

Panoramic x-rays are used to check on the development of your child’s wisdom teeth and identify if the teeth are emerging through the gums without any issues.

Permanent Teeth Check

If you have concerns about your child’s permanent teeth development, digital radiographs can determine if the primary teeth are being lost at a normal rate to allow for the permanent teeth to come in correctly.

Diagnose Genetic Issues

Abnormalities in the physical appearance of your child’s teeth could be a result of a genetic disease. Dentinogenesis imperfecta, for example, is one such condition that x-ray is specifically helpful in diagnosing.

Check Source of Oral Swelling

If your child’s jaw is swollen, you may have no idea what could be the cause. An x-ray could be used to check for things like the erosion of bone or an infection.

Experiencing Oral Pain

A toothache or other dental pain are two dental issues that your child could experience. A periapical (PA) x-ray of the problem allows the dentist to determine what may be causing the pain.

While you may worry about your child’s safety when doing digital dental radiography, there are times when it is necessary. There is very minimal exposure to radiation during digital dental radiography, so rest assured that your child will be fine while getting the help required to have a great looking smile. If you’re interested in an x-ray for your child, make an appointment with Lindner Dental Associates today and carry on with the peace of mind.