Why Digital X-Rays Matter for Children
Even with a careful visual exam, many dental issues can hide between teeth, below the gums, or in the jawbone. Digital x-rays give us high-resolution images of your child’s dental anatomy so we can catch problems before they become serious.
X-rays help us:
- Find cavities between teeth
- Monitor jaw growth and permanent tooth eruption
- Detect signs of bone loss, gum disease, or gum recession
- Assess trauma or abnormalities not visible in a dental exam
- Track growth and development at every stage
Early detection means treatment is simpler, faster, and more effective.
Types of Pediatric Dental X-Rays
Children need different types of x-rays as they grow. The type taken depends on age, stage of development, and individual dental needs.
- Bitewing x-rays: Show the upper and lower teeth together to help detect cavities between teeth and monitor periodontal health. Typically recommended once a year when back teeth are touching or when there are visible concerns.
- Periapical x-rays: Provide a close look at one or two teeth from crown to root. Used to identify deep cavities, abscesses, or root problems.
- Panoramic x-rays: Capture the entire oral cavity in one image. Usually taken around age 7 to monitor eruption, orthodontic needs, or missing/extra teeth. They are then repeated every 5 years or as needed.
These imaging techniques give us the flexibility to monitor your child’s growth, detect dental issues at the right time, and plan treatments with precision.
When Do Kids Need X-Rays?
Because children’s mouths grow and change rapidly, they often need x-rays more often than adults. Baby teeth also have thinner enamel, so cavities spread faster.
X-rays are especially valuable during childhood because they allow us to catch problems early, when treatment is simplest and most effective.
The frequency and type of x-ray depend on your child’s age, oral health history, and risk factors:
| Age Group | X-Ray | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Toddlers (under 3) | Rarely needed | Taken only if there are concerns about trauma, decay, or developmental issues |
| Ages 4–6 | Bitewing or occlusal | Detect cavities when back teeth touch or if there are visible concerns |
| Around age 7 | Panoramic | Assess eruption, orthodontic needs, or missing/extra teeth |
| Ages 7–12 | Annual bitewings or panoramic | Track permanent tooth development and jaw growth |
| Teen years | Various digital x-rays | Evaluate wisdom teeth, orthodontic care, and overall oral health |
Orthodontic assessments begin from the very first visit. Even before teeth erupt, Dr. Kari evaluates palate shape, habits, and jaw development.
If there are issues, she may refer to orthodontic care around age 9, when the upper and lower permanent incisors are erupted. Earlier referrals are made if a crossbite or other concerns are present.
Tooth Be Told
Digital dental x-rays expose a child to only 0.15 milligrams of radiation. By comparison, a round-trip flight to New York is about 5 milligrams. A year of sunlight adds up to about 35 milligrams. Food naturally exposes us to around 40 milligrams, and simply breathing the air adds about 230 milligrams. In other words, one dental x-ray is tiny in comparison!
Advanced Imaging Tools
We use advanced tools that improve accuracy and help kids and parents see what’s happening.
Digital Radiography
Using advanced digital sensors, we capture high-resolution images of your child’s teeth and jaws with far less radiation than traditional x-rays. These images appear instantly on a computer screen, making it easy to review and discuss findings with parents.
OverJet AI Software
OverJet is an artificial intelligence software that reads dental x-rays in real time. It marks areas where cavities or bone changes may be starting. It also shows how close decay is to the nerve. This makes it easier for parents to understand what we see and why treatment may be needed.
Intraoral Cameras
Intraoral cameras are small, pen-sized devices that take close-up photos inside your child’s mouth. They provide clear images of teeth and gums so parents can see exactly what we are talking about.
How They Work Together
Radiographs give us the high-resolution foundation images. OverJet highlights potential concerns on those images. Intraoral cameras provide real-life photos for comparison.
Used together, these tools turn imaging into a clear teaching aid that helps you see what we see and understand the diagnosis.
Supporting Your Child’s Treatment Plan
Digital radiographs are an essential part of creating personalized treatment plans. We share x-rays with parents, often using models and typodonts to explain what’s happening in their child’s mouth. This collaborative approach helps parents feel informed and confident in every decision.
X-rays guide decisions for:
- Preventive care and dental hygiene recommendations
- Restorative treatments such as fillings or dental crowns
- Orthodontic assessments and treatment planning
- Monitoring periodontal disease or bone changes over time
By integrating digital technology into every stage of patient care, we help protect your child’s dental health today and into the future.
A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles Begins with Early Detection
Digital x-rays are one of the most valuable tools in pediatric dentistry. They give a clear view of developing smiles and reveal problems that may otherwise stay hidden.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in SE Calgary, call 403-873-1414 or visit us at Health Plus Building 200, 290 Midpark Way SE Calgary, Alberta T2X 1P1.
Patient ReviewsFAQs
Are dental x-rays safe for kids?
Digital x-rays use very low radiation and are safe for children. They give us important information while keeping exposure to a minimum.
Will my child need x-rays at every visit?
X-rays are typically recommended once a year to give us a complete picture of your child’s oral health. Most routine checkups do not require them.
How do digital x-rays help with treatment planning?
Digital radiographs give clear, high-resolution images of your child’s teeth and jaws. With tools like OverJet AI and intraoral cameras, parents see where problems begin. These images guide treatment such as fillings, orthodontic care, or wisdom tooth assessment.
Is there a pediatric dentist near me in SE Calgary?
BabyTooth is located in SE Calgary and offers a full range of pediatric dental care. Children can receive exams, cleanings, digital x-rays, and preventive treatments. Our office is warm, supportive, and child-friendly.
