Dental X-rays

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At Smiles For Kids, we are committed to balancing the need for diagnostic x-rays with minimizing radiation exposure. We use advanced technology to ensure the lowest possible radiation exposure, including digital x-rays, which emit significantly less radiation than traditional film x-rays, protective thyroid collars and lead aprons, and taking x-rays only when necessary, based on risk factors and AAPD guidelines.

Why are x-rays important?

  • Early Detection/Preventative Care: Help identify problems like cavities between teeth, infections, and issues with tooth development that might not be visible during a regular checkup. Early detection helps to avoid more extensive and costly treatments later on. 

  • Monitor Growth and Development/Identify Potential Problems: Essential for tracking the growth and development of a child's teeth and jaw, ensuring proper alignment and eruption of permanent teeth. We can also identify if there is enough space for permanent teeth to erupt, if baby teeth are falling out correctly and if cysts or abnormal lesions are forming. 

  • Treatment Planning: Help Dr. Theriot plan necessary treatment, such as fillings, crowns, extractions, or early orthodontic intervention, by providing a clear view of the underlying structures.

Typical X-ray Schedule

Below gives you an idea of our recommended x-ray schedule based on the America Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines, ensuring optimal care while prioritizing safety:

  • Ages 3 and Under: We do not typically take x-rays before age 3. At age 3, we take a set of baseline x-rays called an FMX to check for decay, pathology, infection, extra or missing teeth, and monitor the development of permanent teeth under baby teeth.

  • Ages 3-7: Bitewings are taken to check for cavities in between the teeth and see how deep a chewing surface cavity may be. Children with spaces between back teeth, excellent oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and no prior cavities may not need these type of x-rays again for about 12-18 months. Children at higher risk for cavities (back teeth touching, sugary/acidic diet, poor oral hygiene), we recommended them about every 6-12 months. Periapical x-rays are taken below the roots and bone only on an as needed basis to check and monitor previous trauma, infections, abnormalities, missing teeth, etc. depending on the severity of the issue.

  • Ages 7-12: A panoramic x-ray is taken not to detect cavities but to provide a “zoomed out” view of jaw growth, developing permanent teeth, extra or missing teeth, and potential orthodontic needs. If normal, the next panoramic x-ray is taken around age 12 when all primary teeth have been lost and permanent teeth have erupted. Bitewing frequency in this age group decreases, typically every 12-18 months, since permanent teeth enamel is thicker than in primary teeth. Again, we look at cavity risk factors.

  • Ages 13-17: Most teenagers require bitewings every 12-24 months, but frequency increases with poor oral hygiene, developing cavities, high-sugar/acid diets, or orthodontic appliances are in place. A panoramic is taken again around age 17 to check wisdom teeth development and determine if an oral surgeon referral is needed.

If you have any questions or concerns about x-rays, their necessity, indications, or safety, please contact our office anytime at 713-461-1509.