When you hear the word “X-ray,” there’s a tendency to envision a youngster sitting around an ER waiting to see if he or she has a broken bone incurred playing sports or just horsing around. But X-rays are just as important to dentists’ offices as they are to those of orthopedists. A teeth X-ray is invaluable to any dentist in the maintenance of good oral health when treating a patient. Here’s exactly what they are and how dentists incorporate them into their practices.
Your dentist visually examines all aspects of your teeth and gums during a typical checkup. A teeth X-ray, however, is a diagnostic tool that allows your dentist to gauge your mouth health through factors he can’t see with the naked eye, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Also called radiographs, X-rays can reveal common issues such as cavities, tooth decay and periodontal disease, all the way to more complex problems such as jaw infections and oral cysts. X-rays aren’t just for adults though. Dentists take x-rays of childrens’ teeth for some of the same reasons as adults but also some different reasons.
A dentist’s goal is to help his patients, whether adult or child, exercise and maintain good oral health. Children need to understand that a trip to the dentist is a good thing. But some children have an irrational fear of visiting the dentist. That’s where Mom and Dad come in. Parents.com has some tips you can help your child ease his fears about a dental check-up:
Your little one might be wondering why teeth X-rays are necessary, especially if his baby teeth will eventually fall out. Some of the reasons for requiring X-rays differ from those of adults.
X-Ray Safety for Children
Despite the small amount of radiation used in the contemporary X-ray, some parents might be hesitant to let their children undergo this exam. If you’re concerned, you should feel free to say so to your child’s dentist. Image Gently recommends the following to minimize radiation exposure to children:
When it’s time for a checkup, a teeth X-ray serves a crucial role in helping your dentist provide the best possible care for patients like you. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your dentist.