Are Dental X-rays Safe for Kids?

Are Dental X-rays Safe for Kids?
Posted on 10/14/2022

If your child's dentist is asking to take x-rays of your child's mouth, you might initially be concerned. After all, they won't take x-rays of pregnant women and infants unless necessary due to the risks involved. However, you should know that West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE has your child's health and well-being at the heart of everything they do. 

That said, you should know that modern x-ray equipment is relatively safe for children. To ease your troubled mind, you deserve an explanation about why x-rays are safe for kids.

How West Gate Dental in Lincoln, NE Performs X-rays on Children

There are three kinds of x-rays that our family dental clinic in Lincoln, NE takes. The ones that kids are most familiar with are the panoramic x-rays, and the bitewing x-rays. Regardless of the type of x-ray taken, your child is draped with a lead apron from the lower neck to the upper thighs to prevent any issues that would otherwise be of concern.

The bitewing x-rays have your child bite down on an imaging plastic that helps the x-ray machine focus on just the teeth in one area. Multiple bitewings may be taken of the whole mouth or just certain molars. The x-ray energy is focused on just these areas and nowhere else, making them perfectly safe for children.

The bitewing x-rays reduce the cause for multiple concerns regarding a child's dental and oral health as well as exposure to x-ray rays. They are done every 6-12 months as needed.It's a rapid scan of all of the teeth in the back  while he or she is biting down on a type of mouthguard and remaining perfectly still during the process.

Our Family Dental Clinic in Lincoln, NE Makes X-rays Safe for Pre-K Through Late Teens

Children need x-rays to ensure that their mouths and teeth are developing properly. Taking x-rays helps dentists determine if there is or will be a problem with your child's teeth. Then the dentist can take steps to prevent these problems. 

If you live in or near Lincoln, NE, schedule your appointment for your child today with West Gate Dental. We promise to be very gentle and committed to the safety and well-being of your child!