Radiography is an important tool in the fight against pediatric dental disease which is so widespread in our nation today. With the advent of digital x-ray technology the process is safer than ever for our children.
The risk of danger from the radiation that is emitted when a dental x-ray is taken is accumulative, that is it would take years for the exposure to result in cancer. Therefore, the younger the patient is when x-ray treatments are begun the more time there will be for the radiation to concentrate. That is why pediatric dentists are so careful when determining the need for x-rays.
There is no set schedule for when or how often x-rays should be a part of a child’s routine checkup, every case is different. If after his evaluation the dentist feels that the child is highly susceptible for developing cavities he may feel that the benefit of a low dose radiation x-ray outweighs the minimal risk.
Many children won’t require a dental x-ray until the permanent teeth have come in, but if your pediatric dentist foresees a problem in the progress of their development he may suggest an x-ray as the best way to tell just what is going on beneath the gum-line. It is important that the teeth erupt when they should and in proper alignment, in order to prevent future issues.
Dr. Kathy Kaelin is proud to have treated the young citizens of Parker since her practice began here in 1997. Call 303-805-8266 to make your appointment with Kaelin Pediatric Dentistry.