Pediatric Dental X-Rays If your family goes to a pediatric dentist, you know that our entire practice revolves around children, which means that our equipment, hygiene, and explanations are child-centered and child-focused. One of the best ways that we can help our young patients is by making it easy to take dental X-rays. Here is some information from Children's Dentistry of DuPont about dental X-rays and dental exams for your child. Why Caring for Children's Teeth Is So ImportantYou may think that caring for children's teeth is not as big a priority as caring for adult teeth because adult teeth are permanent, while baby teeth fall out as the child ages. However, if children learn to care for their teeth and gums while they are young, they will usually keep those good habits for life. In addition, when baby teeth are well cared for, the permanent teeth will come in strong and healthy. The American Dental Association says that when children's teeth are not healthy and are suffering from tooth decay and gum disease, their permanent teeth may be discolored, irregularly shaped, or not come in at all.  The Pediatric Dental ExamPediatric dental exams are much like adult dental examinations, except the dental tools are smaller. The usual dental exam of the teeth and gums occurs twice a year. First, one of our dental hygienists will check and clean their teeth. They will look for any signs of tartar so they can clean it off before it can cause cavities and gum disease. The mouth will be examined for anything out of the ordinary, such as teeth that are growing crowded or crooked. One of the most important aspects of the pediatric dental exam is the dental X-rays. Dentists use dental X-rays to look for any issues with the size and shape of the teeth. Also, by using X-rays, dentists can look for abnormalities in the teeth, if the teeth are about to erupt or are still in the jawbone, and the jawbone itself. About Pediatric Dental X-RaysThere are different forms of dental X-rays. In the past, the material used for bitewing X-rays could be uncomfortable for kids. Also, you had to take more X-rays in the past than your child will need to do now. Your child may be able to have a panoramic X-ray without even opening their mouth. The typical X-rays used with pediatric patients usually use one or two bitewings and take very little time to do. Also, because nearly all dental X-rays in the United States are digital, they are available immediately and can be transferred from tablet to tablet. Dentists can also share the X-rays if your child needs to have a consultation with an orthodontist, for example. If you are not sure your child is ready for pediatric X-rays, our pediatric dentist is more than happy to discuss your concerns before the visit. We care about parent and child concerns because they help us understand what your child may need. Why not schedule a pediatric dental exam today? For more information, give us a call at (253) 244-9778 today! |
 Office Hours:Mon: 8am - 5pm (Clinic hours by special arrangement) Tues: 8am - 5pm Wed: 8am - 5pm Thu: 8am - 5pm Limited Fri: 8am - 1pm by special arrangement |
