Dental x-rays are an important part of dentistry. By showing the dentist what is happening beneath the gum line, she can get a better view of the mouth in its entirety. Too often, problems exist within the oral cavity that cannot be seen on the surface. This is when these useful and beneficial pieces of technology can come in handy. But are there safe x-rays for children in Poway? Let’s find out.
What Are Digital X-Rays?
Digital X-rays are beneficial pieces of technology that your child’s pediatric dentist in Poway uses to examine and evaluate your little one’s tooth roots, gums, jawbone, and other facial structures. These useful images give your child’s dentist a whole view of their oral cavity, making it possible to spot a variety of problems and monitor the following:
- The alignment of the teeth and if any shifting is occurring
- Formation of small cavities
- Infections inside the tooth
- Wisdom teeth emergence
- Growth of the teeth
- Development of the jaw or identify problems areas of the jaw
Are They Safe to Use on Children?
In the past, dentists used traditional x-rays to see a patient’s full mouth. This included using film to capture an image of the individual’s mouth. Although more cost-effective, the amount of radiation exposure was greater. Traditional x-rays also took much longer to process because of the film used.
Fortunately, work has been done to improve this system, making it a much safer and more comfortable experience for patients.
With digital dental x-rays, your child’s pediatric dentist can cut down on the amount of radiation exposure by up to 80%. Unlike traditional x-rays that require a darkroom and hazardous chemicals, digital images are clear and can be viewed instantly.
Not only is it safe, fast, and effective, but your child will be comfortable throughout the entire process. Digital x-rays make it possible to see even the smallest problem developing on or in your child’s teeth, allowing us to formulate a treatment plan to address the issue and put their oral health back on track.
If you’re concerned that your child will be too afraid to have X-rays taken, the dental team will take the extra steps to explain how it works, show them the equipment, and put them at ease. Your child’s safety is your top priority, and your child’s dentist knows that. By offering a safer, more appropriate solution, you can feel confident knowing their oral health is in good hands.
About the AuthorDr. Sambath “Dr. Sam” Tiep completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of Southern California’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry. She then went on to complete a General Practice Residency at the Bronx Lebanon Hospital Center. She also finished the Pediatric Dentistry Program at Interfaith Medical Center. Board-certified through the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, she takes great pride in making sure your little one is safe and cared for during their visit. Using the latest advancements in dental technology, she will be careful only to use products and tools that will improve your child’s smile and overall well-being, not harm it. To learn more about Dr. Tiep, visit our website or call (858) 943-0750.