Digital X-Rays Technology in Laguna Niguel, CA
What to Know About Dental X-ray Technology in Laguna Niguel, CA
Dental X-rays are essential to diagnosing and effectively treating many oral health issues. If you think your child may need X-rays as part of their dental visit in Laguna Niguel, CA, see the information below to learn more about this service.
What Are Dental X-rays?
Dentists use X-rays in similar ways as doctors in other branches of medicine. This type of imaging provides invaluable insight into your child's oral health. Dental professionals may use them to simply assess the overall condition of your child's teeth and root canal system or to diagnose serious problems like:
- Tooth decay/cavities
- Malformations
- Gum disease (e.g. gingivitis)
- Periodontal disease
- Oral cancer
How Do Dental X-rays Work?
X-rays are an energetic form of light. Technically, they are radiation, but their wavelengths are fortunately on the safer end of the radiation spectrum. The light rays pass through the body, and different tissues absorb them more or less based on their density. Bones and teeth absorb more rays than softer tissues like the gums, so these denser substances show up lighter on X-ray-produced images (called radiographs). Likewise, tooth decay, infection, and other anomalies may appear darker on the radiograph because those areas absorb fewer rays.
Are Dental X-rays Safe?
The exposure to radiation that people experience through X-rays is very small, which is why X-ray usage in medicine and dentistry is so commonplace. Multiple studies have confirmed that this imaging technique is safe for most individuals in most situations.
Additionally, X-rays in dentistry have evolved. At one time, technicians needed film to develop radiographs, but now digital processing exists. The latter method (standard at Little Heroes) is far faster and produces higher-quality images.
That means dentists can devise treatment plans right away without taking as many radiographs or needing to redo any. Therefore, overall radiation exposure for your child is minimal, making X-rays safer than ever.
How Often Should Your Child Receive a Dental X-ray?
How often your child needs X-rays depends on their individual circumstances and oral health. Getting X-rays taken annually can be good practice for adults, although your child may need them more often. We at Little Heroes do not require X-rays for every patient but will recommend it in situations where it is the best course of action.
Where Can My Child Get Dental X-rays Near Me?
If you are looking for dental x-rays for your child in Laguna Niguel, CA, know that Little Heroes is here for you. We specialize in comprehensive dentistry for younger patients, are passionate about helping children maintain excellent oral health, and care about making their experience as comfortable and positive as possible. Contact us to schedule an appointment.