What Type Of X-Rays Will Be Used On My Child?

Depending on the level of decay that your child has or the amount of cavities will depend on how often and what type of x-rays will be used for your child. Dental x-rays are taken in order for Dr. Fuller to see everything that is going on in your child’s mouth below the gum line.

A panoramic x-ray is the one where they will sit in a big chair or stand and pictures are taken of the whole mouth. They show all of the teeth in one shot. They also show the bone structure in the jaw, the sinuses above the upper teeth, as well as the temporomandibular joints.  This type of x-ray does not place anything in your child’s mouth. A panoramic x-ray may also be recommended if they have injury to their face, in order to get a full picture of any damage that may have been done.

Another type of x-ray that may be recommended for your child is called bitewing x-rays.  This type of x-ray is usually not recommended until your child’s back molars have erupted. Bitewings help, Dr. Fuller to view if there are any cavities or decay and to see problems between the teeth.  This may not occur until your child is between four and six years old. If there is a large amount of decay or cavities forming in the mouth, it may be recommended for your child to have x-rays on a regular basis in order to make sure all cavities are taken care of efficiently.