At What Age Should a Child Get Their First Dental X-Ray?

Dental X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool for patients of all ages. Digital X-ray images (radiographs) allow your dentist to see what is below the surface in your mouth that could affect your oral health. 

When it comes to pediatric dentistry, dental X-rays are an important part of maintaining children’s oral health and monitoring the development of the teeth and jaw. How old should your child be when they have their first dental X-rays? Here’s what you need to know as a parent. 

What Are Dental X-Rays? 

Dental X-rays are digital images of the teeth and mouth. As you know, X-rays pass through soft tissues to show what is underneath. The dentist can see the roots of the teeth under the gums, the teeth that are developing but haven’t erupted yet, as well as the bone structure of the jaw. Digital X-rays may also detect cavities that show up as dark spots in the teeth on the radiographs. 

Average Age for Dental X-Rays 

There is not an exact age that is best for every child to start getting dental X-rays. On average, children have their first digital radiographs somewhere between the ages of 4 and 6. Some children may need dental X-rays at an earlier age to address a specific dental problem. The age for dental X-rays should be based on the individual patient and what is in the best interest of their oral health. 

Safety of Dental X-Rays 

Parents often have concerns about dental X-rays and how they may affect their child. The good news is that digital X-rays are safer than ever. Digital X-rays use a fraction of the radiation that was required by the traditional film X-rays used in the past. The X-rays are targeted specifically to the mouth with a high degree of precision and accuracy. Even so, a protective vest is placed over the child’s torso and neck while the X-rays are being taken to ensure that there is no radiation exposure to vital organs. 

Frequency of Dental X-Rays for Children 

Once the first dental X-rays are done, they should be repeated on a yearly basis to monitor oral health. In case of a problem, such as a toothache or a dental injury, your child may need additional X-rays in the same year. 

Benefits of Dental X-Rays

• Early detection. The biggest benefit of dental X-rays is early detection of oral health concerns. From cavities to signs of oral cancer, early detection and prompt treatment results in better outcomes for patients. 
• Interceptive orthodontics. Dental X-rays can also indicate when there are orthodontic issues present at an early age that should be addressed. Some children may need early orthodontic treatment, called interceptive orthodontics. Early treatment can guide growth and make adjustments that reduce the extent of later treatment. 
• Minimal radiation. Advanced technology has made digital X-ray machines that use the smallest amount of radiation possible, improving safety for young patients. 
• Monitor tooth development. Dental X-rays allow pediatric dentists to monitor the development of the permanent teeth before they come in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental X-Rays

Does insurance cover dental X-Rays? 

Most insurance plans cover basic dental X-rays once a year. That means that if your child goes twice a year to the dentist as they should, they will have X-rays done every other visit. 

Can we postpone dental X-Rays until my child is older? 

If you would prefer to wait until your child is older, dental X-rays can be delayed. However, it is important to let your dentist know right away if your child experiences any dental problems. 

Learn More From Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry 

Is your child due for a dental cleaning or X-rays? Call Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry at 201-746-4626 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.