Digital X-Rays At Growing Smiles
At Growing Smiles Main Line Pediatric Dentistry we adhere to the standards set by the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Each child is treated as an individual at our office, and the timing of your child’s initial radiographic examination is based upon each child’s individual circumstances and risk for cavities.
We take every precaution when treating your kids with dental x-rays. With the use digital x-rays your child's exposure is reduced by 70% vs. a traditional film radiograph.In our office, every effort is made to minimize your child’s radiation exposure by applying good radiological practices (using protective aprons and thyroid collars) and by following the as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) principle.
When to Take Digital X-Rays
We determine the need for radiographs based upon each child’s individual needs.
Once the teeth begin to touch, it is difficult to diagnose dental decay without dental x-rays. This is another reason why flossing is so important once the teeth begin to touch, as cavities can form very quickly in baby teeth.
Depending on your child’s risk for cavities, x-rays are taken every 12-18 months until the permanent teeth erupt. The outer shell, or enamel, of baby teeth is thinner than permanent teeth, making the progression of cavities quicker in these teeth and making the use of x-rays even more important.
How Much Radiation is in a Digital X-Ray?
Radiation is measured in milliSievert (mSv). On average, we receive about 6.25mSv each year. Half of which is from natural background radiation and the other half is man-made. Daily exposure is around 1 mSv.
A single bitewing x-ray is .001 mSv. In comparison, a 3.5-hour plane ride is .01 mSv, or 10 times the amount of a bitewing x-ray. A chest x-ray is approximately 7 msV, or 7,000 times the exposure.