Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays:  Are they safe and does my child need them?

The thought of dental X-rays can bring uncertainty when parents want the best care for their child but worry about the safety of the X-ray radiation.

X-rays are an important tool in detecting oral conditions such as cavities, infections, gum diseases, cysts, or some tumors that visual examination alone would not detect. How often X-rays are needed depends on individual child’s risk for disease and if there are signs or symptoms of oral disease. 

With current advanced technology, there are several steps that dentists can take to minimize radiation exposure to children:

  • Use the fastest type of film (E/F) or digital sensors.
  • Protect the child’s body with leaded shield or apron.
  • Use a long tube that extends from the X-ray machine to limit the size of useful beam that reaches the child.

With proper diagnosis, dentists can treat oral conditions early and ensure a healthy mouth over a lifetime.



Eagle Crest Pediatric Dentistry

Board-Certified Doctors

Proudly serving Havertown and the surrounding areas of Ardmore, Haverford, Broomall, Newtown Square, Drexel Hill, Springfield, Clifton Heights, Bala Cynwyd, Lansdowne, Ridley Park, Woodlyn, Prospect Park, Bryn Mawr, Wynnewood, Overbrook, Holmes, Media, Darby, Folsom, Morton, Yeadon, Swarthmore, Wallingford.