Dental X-rays allow us to see areas of your child’s mouth that are not visible during a routine exam, helping us catch issues early and plan for their oral health needs.
When Are X-Rays Needed?
Experienced pediatric dentists like Dr. Treff are the best judge when children need X-rays. Age isn’t the only factor to consider.
Instead, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, it’s all about whether X-rays could provide important diagnostic information.
As your child’s dentist, Dr. Treff considers every aspect of their health when prescribing X-rays: Medical history, dental history, clinical exam results, special needs, and other factors.
What Can X-Rays Reveal?
X-rays provide an in-depth view of your child’s oral health, uncovering issues that might not be visible during a standard oral exam. They can reveal:
- Interproximal Cavities: These are cavities that form between teeth and are often undetectable without X-rays.
- Tooth and Root Development: X-rays show whether your child’s teeth and roots are developing properly, highlighting any abnormalities. These things may also be hard to see through an oral exam.
- Impacted Teeth: X-rays can identify teeth blocked from erupting, such as wisdom teeth or other permanent teeth.
- Eruption Patterns: X-rays reveal the position and progression of permanent teeth coming in, helping us anticipate potential crowding or alignment issues.
- Bone Density and Health: X-rays help assess the jawbone’s strength and detect bone loss or anomalies.
- Pathological Conditions: X-rays can spot cysts, abscesses, or tumors at an early stage.
- Orthodontic Concerns: X-rays help identify malocclusions, overbites, underbites, and other orthodontic issues that may require early intervention.
- Trauma or Injury: X-rays reveal damage to teeth or the jaw from an injury.
With this comprehensive information, we can create a proactive plan to ensure your child’s teeth and jaw develop healthily and functionally.
Are X-Rays Safe for Children?
Parents often ask about X-ray safety. Modern dental X-rays are designed to use minimal radiation, making them safe and effective for kids.
Our practice uses advanced digital X-ray technology, which reduces radiation exposure significantly compared to traditional methods.
We follow American Dental Association recommendations for safe radiation use and take every precaution to ensure your child’s safety, such as using protective aprons and shields during imaging.
X-Rays in Burke, VA
Call Pediatric Dentistry of Burke at 703-712-8077 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve Burke, VA, and nearby communities, including Springfield, Fairfax, and Annandale.
