On occasion, small children may need specialized dental care. Pediatric dentists design their offices and their approach to dentistry with the goal of making children feel safe and comfortable. Cavities on the sides of the teeth, infection of the bone around the tooth root, and cysts and tumors of the jaws are examples. The number and type of x-ray films needed should be individually determined, taking into account age, dental history, symptoms and risk for dental disease. Your dentist will make this determination after your mouth and teeth have been examined and your individual needs considered.
Many people have an inherent fear of unnecessary radiation exposure.
Generally speaking, because of low exposure, the benefit of using x-rays outweighs the health risks. But if you have concerns, you should discuss them with your dentist. Remember, pennies spent on preventive and diagnostic services such as x-rays result in dollars saved, by avoiding the need for more expensive later services on.