Almost everyone who has visited a dentist has experienced their share of radiographs. Radiographs, also known as x-rays, are a key feature of yearly dental exams and play an important role in detecting dental conditions in children and adults alike. Our pediatric dentist in Oak Lawn relies on radiology for the diagnosis and treatment of certain dental issues.

What Can X-Rays Do?

When your dentist conducts an oral exam, they perform a visual inspection of the tongue, gums, and teeth. However, there are lots of different dental conditions which cannot be detected with the naked eye, and many more reasons to have a dental x-ray. Here are some examples:

• Cavity detection. While most cavities can be found during an oral exam, some may only show up on an x-ray. Examining the depth of tooth decay on an x-ray can help your child’s dentist plan its removal.
• Survey dental development. Using radiology, our pediatric dentist in Oak Lawn can better assess and treat any developing dental issues your child may have. Early treatment tends to be less invasive and less expensive compared to treating issues found later on.
• Evaluate an injury. If your child has an accident which impacts their mouth, an x-ray will almost definitely be needed to address the problem. In this scenario, imaging allows your child’s dentist to see cracks, breaks, and below-the-surface issues with clarity.

Different Types of X-Rays

There are many different kinds of x-rays that may be used during your child’s appointment. Depending on the purpose of the x-ray, their dentist may request one or more of the following:

• Bitewing x-rays provide imaging of the upper and lower teeth in one area of the mouth. This type of x-ray is often used to find unseen cavities.
• Periapical x-rays focus on only one or two teeth, showing the full length of the tooth from the crown to the root. This allows for diagnosis of cavities and issues relating to the jaw bone or root.
• Panoramic x-rays capture an image of the child’s entire mouth. These x-rays allow their dentist to assess the development of their smile, including emerging or impacted teeth. In some cases, tumors can be detected with this type of imaging.
• Occlusal x-rays provide a full view of the top or bottom jaw. These images can be used to examine how your child’s teeth fit together.
• Orthodontic x-rays show the entire side of your child’s head in order to assess their orthodontic needs.

Are X-Rays Safe?

Many people have questioned—and studied—the dangers associated with radiographic imaging. While x-rays do expose the patient to radiation, the amount produced in a modern dentistry setting is negligible. Our pediatric dentist in Oak Lawn uses a digital radiograph machine and lead body aprons to minimize exposure, limiting the x-rays to the area of interest. Compared to the risks of x-ray exposure, an untreated dental issue is much more serious.

Our Pediatric Dentist Near Oak Lawn

Curious to know more about the x-rays we provide at our office? Get in touch with a friendly member of our staff to learn more about Chicago kiDDS radiology. We can get you the answers you need and book your child’s next appointment. Hope to hear from you soon!