Learning Center › FAQ

• Importance of Baby Teeth
• Calming an Anxious Child
• Tell/Show/Do
• Do I Stay With My Child?
• Grinding
• Habits
• What Is A Cavity?
• X-Rays
• Nutrition
• Fluoride
• « Learning Center Index

X-Ray Use & Safety

How often should dental x-rays taken?

Dental x-rays are a tool used to see where the naked eye can't. They are only taken when indicated but as a rule, children require them more frequently than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly and they are prone to more tooth decay than adults. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends x-ray examinations every 6 months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. Children with a lower risk of tooth decay will generally need them once a year.

Why does my child need x-rays if he has never had a cavity?

Dr. Russo evaluates your child's growth and development, post injury status, and orthodontic readiness as well as tooth decay. X-rays allow Dr. Russo 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 for your child and more affordable for you.

How safe are dental x-rays?

Dr. Russo has set up her practice to minimize your child's exposure to radiation. We use digital x-rays, which require much less radiation than traditional x-rays. The risk is negligible. In fact, dental x-rays represent a far smaller risk than an undetected and untreated dental problem.

Will my child be protected from x-ray exposure?

Lead aprons with thyroid collars are always used when x-rays are taken.