What Are Dental X-Rays?
Dental X-rays in Greater St. Louis are medical imaging tools that allow dentists to see what’s happening inside your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw. They use a small amount of radiation to capture detailed images that show areas not visible during a regular dental exam.
At Little Smiles of Washington, we use digital X-rays, a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional X-rays. Digital technology reduces radiation exposure by up to 90% compared to conventional methods, making it an excellent choice for young patients.
X-rays help dentists monitor tooth development, identify potential dental issues early, and provide targeted treatments if necessary.
Benefits of Dental X-Rays in Greater St. Louis
Dental X-rays are not just diagnostic tools but an essential part of preventive dental care. Here are the main benefits of opting for Dental X-rays in Greater St. Louis for your child at Little Smiles of Washington:
- Early Detection of Dental Issues: Dental X-rays allow our dentists to catch hidden problems like cavities between teeth, impacted teeth, or early signs of gum disease before they become significant concerns. Early detection means simpler, less invasive treatments for your child.
- Monitors Development: X-rays are particularly important for young patients as they help monitor the growth and development of permanent teeth. They can identify how teeth erupt, whether there’s enough space, and if orthodontic intervention might be needed later.
- Saves Time and Money: Dental X-rays can catch potential issues early, saving parents the hassle and expense of dealing with more extensive treatments down the road.
- Ensures Better Treatment Accuracy: X-rays provide a clear picture of your child’s dental health, ensuring treatments are precise and tailored to their needs.
At Little Smiles of Washington, safety is always our top priority. That’s why our advanced digital X-ray technology uses minimal radiation exposure, ensuring your child stays safe while getting the best care possible.
FAQs About Dental X-Rays for Parents
It’s natural to have questions about your child’s dental care, especially when it involves tools like X-rays. Here are some answers to parents’ most common questions about Dental X-rays in Greater St. Louis.
Q: Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Kids?
Dental X-rays are entirely safe for children when performed at Little Smiles of Washington. Our digital X-ray system minimizes radiation exposure, ensuring the process is as safe as possible for your child.
Q: How Often Does My Child Need X-Rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays depends on your child’s dental needs, age, and oral health history. For most children, X-rays are recommended once a year or when specific concerns arise. Your dentist will always discuss whether X-rays are needed and explain why.
Q: Do X-rays hurt?
Not at all. Taking dental X-rays is a quick and painless process. Your child may feel a small device placed in their mouth to capture the images, but it’s over in seconds.
Q: Why Can't a Dentist Use Their Eyes to Check Teeth?
While visual exams are important, they don’t provide the full picture. X-rays show underlying issues in places not visible to the naked eye, like beneath gums or between teeth, ensuring potential problems don’t go unnoticed.
Q: Is the Radiation Exposure Safe?
Absolutely. Radiation exposure from digital X-rays is minimal—less than what you’d get from a day out in the sun. At Little Smiles of Washington, we take extra precautions, like using lead aprons and high-tech equipment, to keep your child safe.
If you have additional questions about dental X-rays, our friendly team is always here to help!
Why Choose Little Smiles of Washington?
Little Smiles of Washington offers more than just excellent dental care. Our team, led by Dr. Jaime Orrick, Dr. Corey Hastings, Dr. Matt Freihofer, and Dr. Carly Boudreaux (Hazelwood location), provides an exceptional experience for kids and their parents.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Comprehensive Care for All Ages
We specialize in treating infants, children, teenagers, and patients with special needs in Washington, MO, and beyond.
Advanced Technology
From digital X-rays to evidence-based treatments, we use the latest advancements in dentistry to keep your child comfortable and safe.
Family-Friendly Environment
Your child’s experience matters to us. With TVs, streaming services, toys, a toy tower, and goodie bags, your little one will feel right at home during every visit.
Flexible Financing Options
We understand that dental care is an investment in your child’s health. To make treatments accessible for all families, we offer flexible financing through CareCredit.
Dental X-rays in Greater St. Louis
Healthy teeth start with early care—and Dental X-rays in Greater St. Louis are a critical part of that care. Whether it’s your child’s first dental X-ray or part of their routine appointment, Little Smiles of Washington is here to make the experience easy, safe, and beneficial.
Schedule your visit today and see how our team can help your child achieve lifelong dental health.