What are Pediatric Dental X-Rays and Why Are They Important?

Dental x-rays are an important part in the diagnosis of dental problems. They allow your dentist to detect cavities and other abnormalities early, so they can be treated before they become more serious.

Dental x-rays also help monitor the development of permanent teeth, as well as assess the need for orthodontic treatment.

Pediatric Dental X-Rays at Open Wide La Jolla: What to Expect

When you bring your child to Open Wide La Jolla, we want them to have a safe and comfortable experience. We will take the time to explain each step of the process and answer any questions you may have.

We understand that dental care can be overwhelming for kids, which is why Dr. Dains and our team strives to create customized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs. We also offer education about proper oral hygiene habits so parents can help their children maintain healthy smiles at home after leaving our dental office in La Jolla, CA.

The Benefits of Digital X-Rays at Open Wide La Jolla

Digital x-rays are a great option for kids because they’re less radiation-intensive than traditional x-rays. They also provide faster results, which means you can get back to your child’s treatment plan sooner. Plus, digital imaging enhances accuracy by reducing inconsistencies in exposure and positioning that can occur with film X-rays.

What are the Different Types of Pediatric Dental X-Rays?

There are three types of pediatric dental X-rays: intraoral, bitewing and panoramic.

• Intraoral x-rays are taken inside the mouth to get a detailed view of your child’s teeth and jawbone.
• Bitewing x-rays provide a side view of both upper and lower teeth when they’re in contact with each other (for example, when biting down).
• Panoramic x-rays show all or most of the teeth in one image so that you can see how they fit together as well as any abnormalities that may be present on their surfaces or within them (such as cavities).

How Often Should My Child Receive Dental X-Rays?

The frequency of dental x-rays will vary depending on your child’s age and risk factors for dental disease. At Open Wide La Jolla, we recommend that all pediatric patients receive a routine dental exam every six months. This allows us to monitor their oral health and catch any potential problems before they become serious issues.

If you have any concerns about your child’s oral health or if you would like more information about our services, please call us at 858-454-8484 today!

Reducing Radiation Exposure During Pediatric Dental X-Rays

To reduce radiation exposure during pediatric dental x-rays, we use lead aprons to shield your child from the majority of radiation. We also use digital x-rays and low-radiation techniques that allow us to take high-quality images.

Preparing Your Child for Their Dental X-Ray Appointment

To ensure that your child is comfortable, it’s important to discuss the procedure and any concerns they may have before the appointment. You can also use this time to explain why dental x-rays are necessary, as well as what they’ll be doing during their appointment.

If your child has never had a dental x-ray before, it’s helpful for them to know what will happen during the exam so that there are no surprises when they arrive at Open Wide La Jolla.

We will take an image of each tooth using a small amount of radiation (about as much as you’d get from flying on an airplane). The radiation exposure from taking these pictures is very low–less than one percent of what you’d receive from flying across the country!

What to Expect After the Dental X-Ray Appointment

After your appointment, Dr. Dains will review the results and discuss recommendations for treatment. We’ll also establish a plan for future care. If you have any questions about what to expect after the dental x-ray, please don’t hesitate to ask!

At Open Wide La Jolla we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive pediatric dentistry to our younger patients. Our team of dental professionals are highly trained in the latest techniques and technologies in order to ensure that your child receives the highest quality care possible. We strive to make every visit a positive experience for children by creating an inviting environment where they feel comfortable asking questions or expressing concerns about their oral health.