Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?

Parents often ask our staff if dental X-rays are safe for their kids. It’s a good question, especially since X-rays do deliver a small dosage of radiation when used. At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we utilize the most modern technology in our practice. It is designed to minimize radiation exposure while providing the necessary information to check your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw for potential issues that could cause pain or dysfunction.

Why Your Child Will Have X-Rays

X-rays allow our team to see beyond what’s on the surface. They help us spot cavities between teeth, check the roots, and monitor the development of permanent teeth. They can also be useful for keeping an eye on wisdom teeth, which can cause problems when they don’t erupt properly.

Without X-rays, problems may go unnoticed until they become issues that cause pain or infection.

Fortunately, we now have digital X-rays that use extremely low levels of radiation. The exposure is much less than what children get from natural sources (such as the sun) in their daily environment. We also use protective bibs when necessary to limit exposure.

X-Rays Are Safe: Here Are the Facts

It’s normal to be cautious whenever you think about exposing your child to radiation. Here are a few important facts to keep in mind:

  1. The amount of radiation used in digital X-rays is very small
  2. Protective shields are always used
  3. X-rays are only taken when necessary, not at every visit

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit in South Plainfield, NJ

Call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we use X-rays in South Plainfield, NJ. We’ll be happy to walk you through every step of our processes, so you’re comfortable with your child’s care plan.