Dental X-rays provide valuable information that we could not collect otherwise. With the help of radiographs (the proper term for X-rays) we can look at what is happening beneath the visible oral tissues. Dental X-rays pose a far smaller risk than undetected dental problems. If you have questions regarding dental X-rays please ask one of our team members.

How do dental X-rays work?
After being emitted from the dental x-ray machine, X-rays pass through the oral structures and strike the film. While passing through the oral structures more X-rays are absorbed by denser items (such as teeth and bone) than by soft tissues (such as cheeks and gums). Teeth appear lighter on radiographs because fewer X-rays penetrate to reach the film. Cavities and gum disease appear darker because of more X-ray penetration. The interpretation of these X-rays allows the dentist to safely and accurately detect hidden abnormalities.

How often should X-rays be taken?
The frequency of dental x-rays depends on your child's individual needs. It is important to recognize that just as each patient is different from the next, so should the scheduling of X-ray exams be individualized for each patient. We will review your child's dental history, examine the teeth and then decide whether radiographs are needed. Radiographs are taken with consideration of your child's age, and risk for dental disease. Radiographs may be needed to detect new cavities, gum disease or to monitor your child's growth and development. Children may need X-rays more often than adults. This is because their teeth and jaws are developing and because their teeth are more likely to be affected by cavities than those of adults. In our office we follow guidelines published by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry regarding the use of dental X-rays.

Why should X-rays be taken if my child has never had a cavity?
X-rays detect much more than cavities. X-rays may be needed to evaluate erupting teeth, diagnose gum disease, evaluate trauma or diagnose orthodontic related problems. X-rays allow us to diagnose and treat conditions that cannot be detected with the eye. If dental problems are diagnosed and treated early, dental care is more comfortable and affordable.

How do dental X-rays compare to other source of radiation?
We are exposed to radiation every day from various sources, including outer space, minerals in the soil, and appliances in our homes (such as the television)

Source		Exposure (mSV)*
Dental Radiographs
Bitewings (2 films)      Panoramic		0.004 0.007
Medical Radiographs
Chest      Upper GI Series      Lower GI Series		0.080 2.440 4.060
Average radiation in the U.S. from natural sources per year (one mile above sea level)		0.510
Average radiation in the U.S. from natural sources per year		3.000

*The millisievert (mSV) is a unit of measure for radiation

What steps are taken to minimize radiation exposure?
Lead aprons and shields are used to protect your child. Today's equipment filters out unnecessary X-rays and restricts the X-ray beam to the area of interest. In addition, our office uses digital radiography, which reduces radiation exposure by 80% versus standard radiographs.

What are the different types of X-rays and what are they used for?

Bitewing - shows the upper and lower teeth on one small film. Most useful for detecting cavities between the teeth and changes in bone caused by gum disease.

Periapical - shows the entire tooth on one film. Most useful for detecting impacted teeth, infections and abscesses

Panoramic - shows all of the upper and lower teeth, jaws and other structures in one large picture. Often used to screen for unerupted, missing and extra teeth, infections, fractures and other conditions of the jaw.

Cephalometric - shows all of the bones of the face and skull. Used to evaluate orthodontic growth, development and skeletal relationships

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