Dental X-rays are a big part of keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Parents often wonder if they are safe, when they are needed, and how dentists make sure kids are protected during the process. If you’re feeling unsure about dental X-rays for your child, you’re not alone. Below, we’ll go over the most common questions and what parents need to know.
When Do Kids Need Dental X-Rays?
Children don’t always need dental X-rays at every visit. Dentists take them when there’s a reason. For example, if your child has a toothache, a cavity that’s hard to see, or their permanent teeth are coming in, an X-ray can help.
How often they get X-rays depends on:
- Their age and growth stage
- Their risk for cavities or gum disease
- Whether they’ve had dental problems in the past
- What the dentist sees during a regular exam
The American Dental Association recommends using X-rays only when needed, especially for children. Dentists try to limit exposure while still getting the information they need to care for your child’s smile.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?
Dental X-rays use a small amount of radiation, and today’s technology makes them safer than ever. Still, it’s normal for parents to worry.
Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults because their bodies are still growing. Even though the amount of radiation from a dental X-ray is very low, dentists take extra steps to protect kids.
To give you an idea: a standard dental X-ray gives off about the same amount of radiation you’d get from just a few days of natural background exposure from the environment.
How Do Dentists Keep Kids Safe During X-Rays?
Dentists follow safety rules to keep radiation as low as possible. These steps help protect your child’s body and reduce the need for repeat X-rays:
- Lead aprons and thyroid collars: These cover the body and neck to block radiation from reaching sensitive areas.
- Digital X-rays: These use less radiation than older film versions and give faster results.
- Collimators: These tools narrow the X-ray beam so it only hits the area that needs to be seen.
- Custom settings: Dentists adjust the X-ray machine based on your child’s size and age.
These steps follow the guidelines from the “Image Gently” campaign, which encourages safe imaging for children in healthcare settings.
What If My Child Has Trouble Sitting Still?
It’s not always easy for young children to stay still during dental X-rays. But movement can make the image blurry, which might lead to a second X-ray. Dentists often use a few helpful tricks to keep things smooth:
- Involve the parent: Having a trusted adult nearby can help your child feel calm.
- Use simple explanations: Dentists and staff may describe the process in fun or friendly ways to reduce fear.
- Practice staying still: Some offices do a quick “practice round” before the real thing.
- Positive reinforcement: Kids may be rewarded with praise or a small prize afterward for their cooperation.
Every child is different, so the dentist may adjust their approach based on your child’s needs.
Do Dentists Keep Records of My Child’s X-Rays?
Yes, dental offices keep a record of every X-ray your child receives. This includes:
- The date it was taken
- The reason it was needed
- What the X-ray showed
- Any safety steps used
- Notes from the dentist
Keeping this information helps dentists track your child’s dental health over time. It also means they won’t need to take the same X-ray twice. If you ever switch dentists, these records can be shared to avoid unnecessary X-rays in the future.
Why Is It Important to Talk About X-Rays With the Dentist?
Good communication helps everyone. If you have questions about why your child needs an X-ray, don’t hesitate to ask. Dentists want parents to feel confident and informed. You can talk about:
- Your child’s past health history
- Any recent dental issues
- How often your child has had X-rays
- Your concerns about radiation
Dentists may also ask for your consent before taking any images, especially for new patients. Working together helps make sure your child gets the best care while staying safe.
Helping Your Child Stay Healthy and Safe
Dental X-rays are a helpful tool for spotting problems early and keeping your child’s mouth healthy. When used carefully, they provide important details that a dentist can’t see with just their eyes. With the right safety steps and clear communication, the benefits of X-rays usually far outweigh the risks.
Have more questions or need to schedule a check-up? Call (630) 323-5333 to book an appointment. We’re here to help your child feel comfortable while getting the care they need.