X-rays,
also called radiographs, are a valuable diagnostic tool. X-rays help
the dentist to:
- See how your child's teeth are erupting
- See the number, size and position of unerupted teeth
- Determine whether there are missing teeth or extra teeth
- Monitor mouth and teeth injuries
- Determine whether the teeth or mouth are infected
- Prepare for braces and other orthodontic treatment
- Detect problems that can't be seen with a visual exam
- Identify bone diseases
There is no standard timetable for when your child's mouth should be
X-rayed. The need varies with the child's development and dental health.
If your child has had many cavities and restorations or is at a high
risk of tooth decay, your dentist might suggest X-rays every six months
until the problem is under control. Whether X-rays are needed also depends
on how well the child brushes and flosses, and the child's diet. Other
children may not need X-rays taken as often. If X-rays aren't taken
when they are needed, problems can become worse.
There are five types of X-rays your dentist may use for your child,
depending on the goal:
- Bitewing X-rays (also called cavity-detecting X-rays) — These
X-rays are used to view the areas between teeth that cannot be
seen directly. They show where cavities are starting. These X-rays
are needed only after the teeth in the back of the mouth are contacting
each other. In some children, this doesn't happen until the first
permanent molar (also called the 6-year molar) has erupted.
- Periapical X-rays — These are used to
view the entire crowns and roots of one, two or three adjacent
teeth, as well as the supporting bone structure of the teeth that
have erupted into the mouth. This X-ray enables the dentist to
see a child's permanent teeth growing below the baby teeth. It
also is used to look for abscesses and gum disease.
- Panoramic X-rays — These X-rays are used
to view all of the teeth on one film as well as the upper and lower
jaws and the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) as well as the sinuses
above your upper teeth. This X-ray is often used if a child has
hurt his or her face, has orthodontic problems, or is mentally
or physically disabled. Panorex X-rays, unlike other types, do
not require a film to be put in the child's mouth. This is helpful
for children who gag easily or who have small mouths. This X-ray
has to be exposed for 12 to 18 seconds depending on the brand,
and the patient must be able to sit still for the entire exposure.
- Occlusal X-rays — These are used to view
most of the upper or lower teeth on one film. This is useful when
the dentist does not have a panoramic X-ray machine.
- Orthodontic X-rays (also called cephalometric or lateral
skull) — This X-ray, which shows the head from
the side, is used to evaluate growth of the jaws and the relationship
of bones in the skull. It helps an orthodontist make an accurate
diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Dental X-rays are very safe and expose your child to a minimal amount
of radiation. When all standard safety precautions are taken, today's
X-ray equipment is able to eliminate unnecessary radiation and allows
the dentist to focus the X-ray beam on a specific part of the mouth.
High-speed film enables the dentist to reduce the amount of radiation
the patient receives. A lead body apron or shield should be used to protect
the genital/reproductive area and the thyroid gland.
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