X-rays allow dentists to diagnose and treat health conditions that cannot be detected during a clinical examination. If dental problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable and affordable. X-ray films should not be taken routinely. They are recommended only when necessary to protect your child s dental health. The frequency of X-ray films is determined by your child s individual needs.
Pediatric dentists are particularly careful to minimize the exposure of child patients to radiation.
With contemporary safeguards, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small. The risk is negligible. In fact, dental X-rays represent a far smaller risk than an undetected and untreated dental problem. Lead body aprons and shields will protect your child. High-speed film and proper shielding assure that your child receives a minimal amount of radiation exposure.