Roanoke Dental X-Rays
X-rays are an important part of how we examine our patients and formulate our treatment plans. X-rays give us the chance to see areas of the teeth and underlying bone and tissue that we otherwise can’t see during a physical exam. The FDA has clearly established guidelines that we follow to ensure the health and safety of our patients and we will always discuss the need for X-rays with you prior to taking them.
X-rays can help monitor the developing teeth and structures in the mouth, diagnose bone diseases, evaluate the damage caused by an injury, or determine the need for orthodontic treatment. X-rays allow us to diagnose and treat issues that can’t be seen during a physical examination.
The ADA recommends X-rays for most children once a year, but the need for X-rays may be more frequent in children who are at higher risk of tooth decay. For these children, we may recommend X-rays be taken every six months. It is recommended that a complete set of X-rays, including panoramic or periapical and bitewings, occur every 3-5 years.
The health and safety of our patients is our utmost priority and we will always minimize the exposure of our patients to radiation. Today’s X-rays give off an extremely small amount of radiation and should not be a cause for concern.
Our team is dedicated to providing our patients with the very best in dental care, which includes using X-rays. At Parkway Pediatric Dentistry, our Roanoke Kids Dentist follows the principle of “as low as reasonably achievable” or ARLA, where we limit exposure of radiographs exposure.
FAQ
What do dental X-rays check for?
X-rays check for cavity and decay, but they can also monitor the development of emerging teeth, look for issues with bone development, and see things that may be lurking underneath the surface. They also allow us to see in between the teeth to ensure decay isn’t present. X-rays allow us to see what the eye cannot see during a physical examination.
What are the different types of dental X-rays?
Bitewing X-rays examine one specific area of your mouth, showing us the visible tooth as well as half of the roots and supporting bone and help us determine the presence of decay, especially between the teeth. Periapical X-rays show us the tooth from the root to the crown and can help us see what is happening in the root or bone structure. Panoramic X-rays show us the entirety of our mouth all in one image.
Do kids need dental X-rays in Roanoke, VA?
The American Dental Association recommends that children have X-rays taken once a year. For children who may be more prone to decay, we may recommend X-rays every six months. This can ensure that we always know what is happening in your child’s mouth and can take any steps necessary to prevent decay from progressing.
At what age should kids get dental X-Rays?
We typically recommend starting X-rays around the age of two or three. These first X-rays will be simply pictures that allow us to get an idea of how your child’s smile is taking shape, as well as to help your child get comfortable with the process. When the baby teeth touch each other, we recommend regular (yearly) X-rays.
Can a Roanoke pediatric dentist see cavities without X-Rays?
Some decay can be seen during a physical examination, however, we can only see what is visible to the eye. That means if there is decay located between the teeth, we may not be able to adequately see it. And because the enamel on baby teeth isn’t as strong, decay can travel much more quickly between teeth.
