Are Dental X-rays Safe for Children?

Posted on 2/16/2026 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

A smiling, excited young girl sits in the dental chair, eagerly awaiting her dental exam while her dentist places a bib on her.

Many parents wonder about the safety of dental x-rays for their kids. It's natural to be concerned about radiation exposure, especially when it comes to our little ones. Let's break down what you need to know to feel confident about this important diagnostic tool.

What are Dental X-rays?

Dental x-rays, also called radiographs, are pictures of your child's teeth and jaws. These pictures help dentists see things we can't see with just our eyes during a regular check-up. They show us cavities that might be hiding between teeth, developing teeth under the gums, and even potential problems with the jawbone. Think of them like a superpower that lets us see inside!

Why are Dental X-rays Important for Children?

For children, dental x-rays are particularly crucial. They help us:

•	Find cavities early: Small cavities are easier to treat than big ones. Early detection means less invasive treatments for your child.
•	Monitor tooth development: X-rays show us how your child's permanent teeth are developing and if there are any problems with the way they are erupting.
•	Diagnose bone problems: We can identify cysts, tumors, or infections in the jawbone that would otherwise go unnoticed.
•	Plan orthodontic treatment: X-rays are vital for planning braces or other orthodontic treatments.
•	Assess trauma: After an injury to the mouth, x-rays help us see if there are any broken teeth or damage to the surrounding bone.

Understanding Radiation Exposure

It's true that x-rays use radiation. However, the amount of radiation used in dental x-rays is extremely small. In fact, the amount of radiation from a full set of dental x-rays is about the same as the amount of natural background radiation we receive from the environment in a single day. We are constantly exposed to radiation from the sun, soil, and even our own bodies.

How Dentists Minimize Radiation Exposure

We take many precautions to minimize your child's radiation exposure during dental x-rays:

•	Lead Aprons: Your child will always wear a lead apron that covers their chest and abdomen to protect their vital organs. A thyroid collar is often used to protect the thyroid gland.
•	Fast Speed Film or Digital Radiography: Modern dental offices use digital x-rays, which require significantly less radiation than traditional film x-rays.
•	Collimation: This technique uses a device to focus the x-ray beam on the specific area we need to see, minimizing exposure to other parts of the body.
•	Only Necessary X-rays: We only take x-rays when they are truly needed for diagnosis and treatment. We carefully consider your child's individual needs and risk factors before recommending x-rays.

Are Dental X-rays Safe? The Verdict

The benefits of dental x-rays far outweigh the risks. The small amount of radiation exposure is considered safe when precautions are taken. By detecting and treating dental problems early, we can help your child maintain a healthy smile for life. Always feel free to discuss any concerns you have with your child's dentist. We are here to answer your questions and ensure your child receives the best possible care.

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