X-rays (Radiographs)
X-rays are a safe and worthwhile diagnostic tool commonly used by dental professionals. They help detect conditions that cannot be seen during clinical examination (check-ups).
If conditions are detected earlier, preventing and treating disease will be more affordable and comfortable as the required dental care is minimal.
Why are X-rays necessary?
We use them to:
- detect and confirm the extent of cavities/decay within and between teeth
- identify abnormalities such as malformed, missing or extra teeth
- check the mouth after an injury or dental trauma for fractures or pathology (infection)
- review and monitor growth/development and the position/formation of teeth
- detect and help diagnose infections/conditions of the pulp (nerve), bone or soft tissue
- plan for orthodontic treatment
Are dental X-rays safe?
At Children’s Dentistry, we use the latest digital equipment set to the lowest radiation and at paediatric doses to ensure optimal safety and quality images X-rays are taken for your child.
The amount of radiation with digital radiographs is minimal. We can therefore confidently ensure a safe dose for your child. For example, four X-rays will emit approximately the same or less than a few hours of natural background radiation or a -2 hour plane flight.
Dental X-rays pose a much smaller risk than undetected and untreated dental problems. Thus, we highly recommend X-rays as a part of your child’s treatment plan.
What types of X-rays are there?
We take different types of radiographs. Extra oral X-rays called OPGs give us a good overview of all the teeth, including the erupting teeth. There are also intra-oral X-rays which are close-up pictures that help detect decay or infection in between teeth.
Recently, we have added a new module placed on our extra-oral X-ray machine for bite-wing X-rays which can be useful in certain patient groups e.g. those with a strong gag reflex.
Why are X-rays taken regularly?
- dental professionals recommend X-rays to evaluate and monitor your child’s oral health
- children’s mouths grow and change more rapidly than adult’s mouths
- children are more susceptible to decay than adults especially those a high risk of developing decay may require X-rays more frequently
- children with sustained dental trauma or developmental anomalies may require to take more X-rays
Bitewing X-ray
Used to diagnose presence of decay/cavities on surface, inside and in-between teeth
OPG X-ray
Used to view the angles and interplay between primary and adult teeth to preventively address any future issues.