Consider Digital Dental X-rays For Early Detection of Oral Problems and Improved Treatment Outcomes

Dental X-rays in Colorado Springs, Colorado, are vital in pediatric dentistry. They provide an enhanced view of your child’s oral structures beyond what the naked eye can see. Simply Kids Dental uses modern dental X-rays as a safe and effective alternative to film-based X-rays. Our digital radiographs emit minimal radiation and generate real-time results to diagnose a problem or devise a treatment plan.

Why does my child need dental X-rays?

During your child’s dental exam, the dentist uses visual and physical examinations to inspect your child’s teeth and gums. Unfortunately, a visual exam can only see so much. Dental X-rays penetrate beneath the surface to unearth dental issues that are not visible to the naked eye.

Using dental X-rays, the dentist can detect the following hidden issues.

  • Impacted wisdom teeth
  • Bone loss
  • Cysts and tumors
  • Cavities between teeth (interproximal cavities)
  • Dental misalignment

Typically, we use dental X-rays as a preventive measure and to monitor your child’s oral development and growth. They help detect and treat minor oral issues before they become significant problems. Your pediatric dentist can also order dental X-rays to plan treatments, including orthodontics and restorative treatments like crowns and fillings.

How often do kids need dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays aren’t taken in every dental exam. According to the ADA, the need for dental X-rays is determined based on your child’s needs and circumstances. In our office, Dr. Sean Vostatek recommends pediatric X-rays on a need-basis, often for preventive and diagnostic purposes.

Children at risk of decay or gum disease may need X-rays more often to monitor changes in their oral structures. Similarly, if your child has dental trauma, we may need an X-ray as soon as possible to determine the extent of damage and devise the best treatment plan.

For children with a low risk of decay, we’ll recommend X-rays every one or two years. Even when problems aren’t found, dental X-rays are crucial in monitoring tooth and jaw development. Rest assured, we’ll only order X-rays when absolutely necessary to avoid exposing your child to unnecessary radiation risk.

Are dental X-rays safe?

Dental X-rays are generally safe and low-risk for kids. We use digital X-rays, the latest and safest form of radiography. Digital X-rays emit a significantly reduced amount of radiation than traditional X-rays.

However, although the amount of radiation from digital X-rays is safe, the effects are cumulative, so any radiation counts. We always observe safety precautions to minimize radiation exposure as much as possible. Your child will wear a protective apron and thyroid collars to shield the rest of the body from extraneous exposure. 

What are the advantages of digital radiography?

Because our office is committed to providing you with the safest and most convenient treatments, we use digital radiographs to achieve superior outcomes. Compared to traditional films, digital X-rays offer the following benefits.

  • Detailed, high-quality images
  • Real-time results
  • Quick and comfortable procedure
  • Electronic storage for quick reference
  • Less radiation risk
  • Use more environment-friendly materials

Do you have more questions about dental X-rays?

We understand dental X-rays are a hot topic in dentistry, and you may want to know whether they are safe for your child. To learn more about dental X-rays, call (719) 249-2030 to talk to the team at Simply Kids Dental.

 Utilizing advanced digital X-ray technology in our Colorado Springs pediatric dental practice is a crucial aspect of providing the safest, most up-to-date and convenient treatment options for your child. Here’s why digital X-ray technology is the best treatment possible for your child compared to traditional films:

Is a digital X-ray really safer?

We care about your child’s health and well-being, therefore we know that you are concerned with reducing the amount of radiation exposure and digital X-rays is the solution. While dental X-rays typically involve very low levels of radiation, the cumulative effect over time is a concern.  Digital X-rays can reduce radiation exposure by up to 80 percent!

What are the advantages of digital X-rays?

  • Enhanced Comfort: Unlike traditional X-rays that require biting down on a sharp piece of film, digital X-rays are much more comfortable for your child.  
  • Shorter Appointment Times: With digital X-rays, overall there’s no need to wait for film development, making the entire checkup process shorter and more efficient. This means less time in the dental chair for your child, reducing any potential anxiety or restlessness.
  • Improved Diagnostic Accuracy: Digital images can be enlarged and manipulated, providing the dentist with a clear, more detailed view of your child’s teeth. This enhances diagnostic accuracy and allows for better treatment planning. 
  • Better Patient Understanding: By viewing the digital images on an enlarged screen, your child can better understand the importance of dental care. They can see their teeth up close and gain insight into why maintaining oral health is crucial. Plus digital X-rays can be formatted within enhanced dental software like Pearl AI for simpler education purposes.
  • Environmental Benefits: It’s earth friendly!  Digital X-rays eliminate the need for harmful chemicals used in traditional film processing, making them eco-friendly and better for the environment.

At Simply Kids Dental, our childrens dental practice, we prioritize your child’s comfort and well-being. During your next appointment, we’ll be more than happy to address any questions or concerns you may have about digital X-rays or any other aspect of your child’s dental care.

We are proud to serve families in the Colorado Springs, Monument, Woodland Park and neighboring Colorado communities and invite you to experience the difference in care we can provide. Contact us at (719) 249-2030 to schedule your appointment today!