What Kind of X-Rays Will My Child Get at a Check-Up — And Are They Necessary?

When it comes to your child’s dental health, you want the best care delivered with the safest and most advanced technology. At Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX, parents often ask about dental x-rays: what types are used, why they’re needed and—most importantly—are they safe?

Let’s explore the answers to these common questions and why you can trust Monte Vista for your child’s dental care.

What Are Pediatric Dental X-Rays?

Dental x-rays, or radiographs, are images that allow dentists to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your child’s teeth and gums. They are essential in diagnosing issues that are not visible during a standard examination, such as cavities between teeth, impacted teeth and the development of adult teeth.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), x-rays are a critical part of preventive dentistry, especially in children, whose mouths are constantly changing as they grow.

Types of X-Rays Your Child May Receive

At Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, the following types of dental x-rays may be used during your child’s check-up:

1. Bitewing X-Rays: These show the upper and lower back teeth in a single image, helping detect cavities between teeth and monitor bone health.
2. Periapical X-Rays: These focus on one or two teeth at a time, capturing the entire tooth from crown to root to check for tooth development and root health.
3. Panoramic X-Rays: These provide a broad view of the entire mouth, including all teeth, jaws and surrounding structures. They are especially useful for tracking growth, development and identifying potential orthodontic needs.
4. Occlusal X-Rays: These capture the floor or roof of the mouth and help detect extra teeth, cysts, or jaw issues.

Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics utilizes advanced digital X-ray technology that delivers far less radiation than traditional film X-rays and produces clearer images for more accurate diagnosis.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?

Safety is a top concern for every parent. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) confirms that dental X-rays are very safe when proper guidelines are followed. Modern digital x-rays reduce radiation exposure by up to 80-90% compared to older film-based methods.

A 2021 review published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that the radiation dose from a set of four bitewing digital X-rays is about 0.005 mSv (millisieverts)—equivalent to the amount of radiation a person receives from natural sources in a single day. For context, a round-trip flight from New York to Los Angeles exposes a person to about 0.035 mSv, which is much higher than the dose from routine dental X-rays.

In addition, Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics follows the “ALARA” principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) to minimize exposure. Protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are always used, and X-rays are only recommended when necessary for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Why Are Dental X-Rays Necessary for Kids?

Children’s mouths change rapidly as they grow. X-rays help pediatric dentists:

• Detect cavities early, before they cause pain or require major treatment
• Monitor the eruption of permanent teeth
• Check for missing or extra teeth
• Assess bone health and jaw development
• Identify infections or injuries not visible to the naked eye

Skipping X-rays could mean missing problems that could become serious if left untreated. The ADA recommends that dentists base the frequency and type of X-rays on each child’s unique risk factors and dental history.

Trust Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

At Monte Vista, your child’s safety and comfort are our highest priorities. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art digital X-ray equipment, follows strict safety protocols and explains every step of the process. We communicate openly with parents and only recommend X-rays when they are truly necessary for your child’s health.

5 FAQs About Pediatric Dental X-Rays

1. How often will my child need dental X-rays?
It depends on your child’s age, risk of cavities and dental history. Some children may need them annually; others less often. Your dentist will recommend what’s best.

2. Are dental X-rays painful?
No. Taking X-rays is quick and painless. Some children may feel slight pressure from the sensor, but it’s very brief.

3. Can I refuse X-rays for my child?
Yes, but X-rays are a valuable tool for early diagnosis. Discuss any concerns with your dentist to make an informed decision together.

4. What if my child has special needs or anxiety?
Monte Vista’s team is experienced with children of all backgrounds and needs. We use gentle approaches and make accommodations to ensure every child’s comfort.

5. Are there alternatives to dental X-rays?
X-rays are the only way to see certain issues beneath the surface. Visual exams alone cannot detect all problems, especially between teeth or inside the jaw.

Schedule Your Child’s Visit Today

Give your child the safest and most advanced dental care in San Antonio. Book an appointment with Monte Vista Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics for compassionate, expert care and peace of mind for your family. Contact us today!