When your child visits the dentist, you might hear that it’s time for dental X-rays. For many parents, this recommendation can raise questions: Are they safe? Are they really necessary? How often should they be done?
Dental X-rays (also called radiographs) are an essential tool in pediatric dentistry, offering a clear view of what’s happening beneath the surface of your child’s teeth and gums. They allow dentists to diagnose problems early, monitor growth, and make more informed treatment decisions—all while using technology designed specifically with children’s safety in mind.
Here’s everything parents need to know about dental X-rays for kids, including how they work, why they matter, and when your child might need one.
Why Do Kids Need Dental X-Rays?
While a visual exam can reveal a lot about your child’s oral health, it doesn’t tell the full story. Dental X-rays help your dentist see what’s happening below the surface—including between teeth, under the gums, and inside the jawbone.
X-rays are especially important in pediatric dentistry because children’s mouths are constantly changing as they grow. Early detection of potential issues gives your dentist the ability to treat them before they become more serious or painful.
Some key reasons for taking dental X-rays in children include:
- Detecting cavities between teeth that can’t be seen visually
- Monitoring tooth development and eruption patterns
- Evaluating space for incoming permanent teeth
- Identifying infections, cysts, or bone abnormalities
- Planning orthodontic treatment
- Monitoring injuries after trauma to the mouth
In short, X-rays give pediatric dentists the full picture they need to support your child’s oral health.
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?
Yes—modern dental X-rays are safe for children when performed using current technology and proper protective measures.
Pediatric dental offices use digital X-ray systems, which emit significantly lower levels of radiation compared to traditional film X-rays. In fact, a single digital dental X-ray exposes your child to less radiation than they’d receive from a day of natural background radiation just being outdoors.
Additional steps are taken to keep your child safe:
- Protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are used to shield the body
- Only the necessary number of images are taken
- Equipment is calibrated specifically for smaller patients
Dental professionals follow strict guidelines from the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) to ensure that X-rays are only taken when truly necessary—and at the lowest exposure possible.
How Often Should Kids Get Dental X-Rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your child’s age, dental health, risk of cavities, and history of dental issues. There’s no one-size-fits-all schedule, but here are some general guidelines:
- New patients — May need a full set of X-rays to establish a baseline
- High-risk children — Those prone to cavities may need X-rays every 6–12 months
- Low-risk children — May only need X-rays every 12–24 months
- Orthodontic monitoring — X-rays may be needed to assess jaw growth and tooth position
Your child’s dentist will evaluate their individual needs and recommend X-rays only when the benefits outweigh any potential risks. If your child hasn’t had X-rays recently—or if they’ve had changes in their oral health—your provider may recommend updated images.
What Types of X-Rays Are Used in Pediatric Dentistry?
Several types of dental X-rays are used depending on what the dentist needs to evaluate. Common types include:
- Bitewing X-rays — Capture the upper and lower back teeth to check for cavities between them
- Periapical X-rays — Show the entire tooth, from crown to root, to identify issues below the gumline
- Panoramic X-rays — Provide a broad view of the entire mouth, jaw, and sinuses, often used for monitoring growth or planning orthodontic care
- Occlusal X-rays — Capture images of the floor or roof of the mouth, helpful for viewing developing teeth or jaw structure
Each type serves a specific purpose, and your child may not need all types during every visit. Your dentist will choose the most appropriate option based on your child’s age, development, and symptoms.
How to Prepare Your Child for a Dental X-Ray
For most kids, getting an X-ray is quick and easy. Still, knowing what to expect can help them feel more comfortable—especially during their first experience.
You can help your child prepare by:
- Explaining that the process is fast and doesn’t hurt
- Letting them know they may need to bite down on a small piece of plastic for a few seconds
- Reassuring them that the dental team will be with them the entire time
- Avoiding scary language—say “picture of your teeth” instead of “X-ray” if that feels more comforting
Pediatric dental teams are highly trained in making the experience kid-friendly, and they’ll walk your child through it step-by-step to reduce any anxiety.
Questions to Ask Your Pediatric Dentist
If you have concerns about dental X-rays, it’s always a good idea to speak with your child’s dentist directly. Some helpful questions to ask include:
- Why does my child need this X-ray?
- What type of X-ray will be taken?
- How will this help diagnose or monitor their condition?
- What safety measures are in place to protect my child?
- How often should we expect to have X-rays moving forward?
Having these conversations can give you peace of mind and help you feel confident in your child’s dental care plan.
Kid-Friendly Dental Care You Can Trust in New Orleans
At NOLA Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s comfort and safety are always our top priorities. We use advanced digital X-ray technology designed for children, ensuring minimal radiation exposure while providing the most accurate view of their dental health.
Why families in New Orleans and Madisonville trust us:
- Low-radiation digital imaging with modern equipment
- X-rays only when necessary—never more than needed
- Clear communication with parents before, during, and after the visit
- Gentle, child-friendly approach to every step of the process
- A focus on education and prevention from day one
Have questions about dental X-rays or want to schedule a checkup? Reach out to NOLA Pediatric Dentistry—we’re here to support your child’s healthiest smile.