Children’s Dental X-Rays
Children’s dental X-rays, also known as dental radiographs, are one of the essential tools needed to assess and monitor dental problems in adolescents, children, and infants. It allows us to see and treat oral problems like bone diseases, bone injuries, orthodontic misalignment, tooth decay, and cavities. A Dental X-ray helps the doctor diagnose issues that would be impossible to see with the naked eye. As the child grows, modern medical equipment during regular checkups helps the doctor monitor the dentofacial development of your child. Whenever a child suffers from an injury or trauma, we are able to make an informed decision on the specific solution to promote oral function
We understand when most parents are hesitant to allow their children to get exposed to radiation. However, at Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Vanessa Wadden takes safety measures. We evaluate each circumstance individually and always try to minimize the child’s exposure to radiation by applying preventative measures like using thyroid collars and protective aprons. We understand that your child’s dental health will determine their well-being as they grow into adulthood.
When will my child need Digital X-rays?
As said earlier, every child’s circumstance is dealt with separately. The need for radiographs is assessed based on a child’s individual needs. Once more teeth begin to grow, the best way to diagnose cavities and decays is by using dental x-rays. This is why we always remind our patients to adhere to good oral hygiene practices, especially brushing and flossing, which eliminate food debris between teeth.
Depending on your child’s dental health history, the standard time for your child to take digital x-rays is after every one year to one and a half years until permanent teeth begin to grow. Since a baby’s primary teeth are weaker than permanent teeth, cavities in baby teeth can get worse in under one year. This is one of the significant reasons why we should monitor the dental progress of your child using radiographs.
What are dental X-rays used for?
What are dental X-rays used for?Dental X-rays are used to diagnose various conditions in children, they include;
– Revealing tumors, abscess and other facial bone injuries
– Assessing the amount of space available for growing teeth
– Examining the oral structure before treatments, especially orthodontic treatment
– Checking whether primary teeth are being shed in good time for adult teeth to emerge
– the progression of bone disease
– Examining and treating cavities and decay
– Revealing impacted wisdom teeth
Advantages of Dental x-rays:
A clear picture
– Dental x-rays have been developed using novel technologies to make them sharper and enhance their functions. Dentists are able to decrease or increase the contrast or magnify an area of concern. The most insignificant changes in a child’s dental structure can be detected easily.
Saves time – No chemical processing
– Patients don’t have to wait for pictures to develop and no chemicals to dispose of. The diagnosis of oral problems is quicker.
Easy sharing and storage
– Dentists need to refer to your medical history to help them make a precise and informed decision. With medical equipment like digital X-rays, patients are able to understand the diagnosis and treatment options. It allows doctors and patients to share information through virtual mediums.
If you live in Muscatine or the nearby areas, Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry is the right choice for you. We adhere to all guidelines set by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) after approving the use of dental radiographs for oral evaluation purposes in teenagers and children. The regulations aim to protect young people from unnecessary exposure. Each child is treated with care to ensure that they are as comfortable as possible. We also adhere to the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) principle and conduct each assessment is based on individual circumstances.
Dr. Vanessa Wadden has employed the best modern medical equipment to treat all dental problems in children. We have witnesse
d substantial technological changes across all industries, especially in the fast-paced 21st century. This has helped the x-rays perform faster, meaning less exposure to the already low amount of radiation. Children’s dental x-rays emit minimal radiation and are very safe for both adults and children. Your child exposure is reduced significantly by almost 70% when using digital x-rays compared to a traditional film radiograph. Our friendly staff is always available to answer any questions you may have. We invite you to join our family of patients and caring medical experts. Book an appointment with us today for the best dental experience!