Dental X-Rays — Are They Really Safe for Kids?

Routine dental care is important for your child’s oral and overall health. As a loving parent, though, you might have some qualms about certain aspects of your child’s appointments, such as X-rays. Because X-rays use radiation, it is natural for you to wonder if they are really safe for kids. This blog post aims to put your mind at ease.

How Much Radiation Is Used?

The word “radiation” might seem a bit scary. However, the amount of radiation involved in modern dental X-rays is extremely low. In fact, today’s digital X-ray systems use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. To put things into perspective, your child will actually receive more background radiation from their natural environment — such as from the sun or household appliances — than from a single set of dental X-rays. For example, the exposure from a single dental X-ray is comparable to what your child would naturally encounter just by spending a few hours outside on a sunny day.

Dental professionals are also required to follow strict safety protocols to minimize your child’s exposure. Lead aprons and thyroid collars are used routinely to protect sensitive tissues, and only the areas that need to be examined are targeted. The technology continues to improve with time, making dental X-rays ever safer for children.

Dentists Try to Avoid Unnecessary X-rays

You may worry that your child is getting X-rays too frequently, but dentists are trained to be judicious about when and why they recommend them. Dentists follow guidelines established by professional organizations, such as the American Dental Association, to ensure that X-rays are only taken when they are necessary. Your child’s age, dental history, and risk for tooth decay are all considered before making a decision.

If your child has a low risk of cavities and no signs of dental problems, your dentist may decide to delay X-rays or take them less often. Conversely, if your child has a history of dental issues or is experiencing pain, X-rays may be critical for diagnosing the problem accurately. Ultimately, the goal is always to use the least amount of radiation possible while still providing the best possible care.

The Benefits Far Outweigh the Risks

While even minimal exposure to radiation can sound concerning, it is important to recognize the significant benefits that dental X-rays provide. These images allow your dentist to detect issues that are not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, infections in the bone, and problems with jaw development. Early detection of these conditions means they can be addressed before they become more serious or require more invasive treatments. This proactive approach can spare your child from pain and help you save money.

As a parent, you want to make the best decisions for your child’s health. That is commendable. However, dental X-rays are not something to worry about. In fact, their diagnostic power makes them something to be grateful for!

Meet the Practice

At New England Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, our team is proud to be home to a pediatric dentist, an orthodontic specialist, and a highly skilled general dentist. We prioritize the health and safety of our patients, which is why we are careful not to overdo it on X-rays. To learn more about us or to request a checkup for your child, contact our Auburn, MA, practice at 508-832-6278.