Digital X-Rays

Digital
X-Rays
Low Radiation, Digital X-Rays

Your child’s safety and comfort are our top priorities! We’re proud to use low radiation, digital dental X-rays to diagnose and treat conditions in-between and inside the teeth, as well as below the gumline. 

Are dental X-rays safe? Digital X-rays produce 80% less radiation than traditional imaging systems. Yes, digital dental X-rays are considered safe. They do still require minimal levels of radiation exposure, but we take every precaution to ensure that the radiation exposure is As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).

What are dental X-rays used for?

A physical, clinical exam alone cannot see the areas of a tooth that a radiograph provides. Dental X-rays are essential for ensuring that the child’s teeth are developing properly and healthily, and that their oral health is sufficient.

Digital X-ray machines produce a detailed image of the gums, teeth and teeth roots, which our dentists use to assess the health of your child’s mouth and to identify problematic conditions, such as cavities and impacted teeth (teeth that aren’t able to erupt through the gum).

By analyzing digital X-rays, our dentists can detect signs of oral health issues that may not be detectable to the naked eye.

How often should my child get dental X-rays?

It is recommended that children receive a dental check-up with X-rays every six months to a year. A child’s first dental appointment should be scheduled right before his or her first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth erupting. 

Depending on any risk factors your child may have for oral health problems, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits so we can monitor their development.

How do dental X-rays work?

Digital dental X-rays use a small sensor to produce a high-quality image of the teeth and gums. This small sensor will be placed inside the mouth, where it’ll scan the bones and gums in a few seconds. Once this scan is complete, the image will be automatically transferred to our computers. 

We don’t have to go through dental X-ray film or use any chemicals to create the X-ray! We’ve found the digital X-rays are more comfortable for our young patients, as the process only requires a small sensor, instead of inserting an uncomfortable plate into the mouth and applying a lead bib, as traditional X-rays require.  

Digital dental X-rays are more comfortable, accurate and convenient than ever before! It’s important to us that our young patients have a positive experience with us. We are constantly looking for ways to improve the patient experience.

Our experienced team is led by Dr. Frank Sierra, who has more than 25 years of experience providing compassionate, expert care for children and teens in our communities.

Have questions about digital dental X-rays for children?

We’re here to answer your questions, and we want you and your child to know your options! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. 

Dr. Sierra, Dr. Kwon, Dr. Patel and our team are here to help guide you and your child. We offer kinder, gentler dentistry for kids and teens. It is our goal that your child develops and maintains a positive association with dental care and we do everything we can to create a pleasant, supportive, and fun environment for our little patients.

Ready to schedule an appointment? Let’s get started. Visit us in Town & Country, South Tampa, North Tampa or Bradenton!