At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we understand how much parents want to protect their children, especially when it comes to health decisions that feel unfamiliar or technical. One common question we hear from families is: “Are dental X-rays really necessary for my child? And are they safe?”

These are important and valid questions. The short answer? Yes—when recommended thoughtfully and done with modern technology, pediatric dental X-rays are incredibly safe, fast, and important tools in protecting your child’s long-term oral health.

Dental X-rays give us a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening beneath the surface of your child’s teeth and gums. While your child’s smile may look picture-perfect on the outside, hidden cavities, early signs of infection, or developing adult teeth might be quietly progressing below. X-rays help us spot those concerns early—before they turn into discomfort, damage, or expensive treatments.

We also know that the idea of “X-rays” can sound intimidating, especially when it involves your little one. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide: to help you understand why pediatric dental X-rays matter, when they’re needed, how often they’re recommended, and—most importantly—how safe and gentle they truly are.

Along the way, we’ll also share practical tips for helping your child feel confident and comfortable before their X-ray visit, so the experience feels calm, empowering, and even a little fun.

Let’s explore everything you need to know to make informed, confident decisions about your child’s smile—starting with what pediatric dental X-rays are.

What Are Pediatric Dental X-Rays?

Pediatric dental X-rays—also known as dental radiographs—are safe, quick images that allow your child’s dentist to see inside the teeth, below the gums, and around the jawbones. These "tooth snapshots" help us understand what’s happening beyond what the eye can see.

While your child’s smile may look healthy on the outside, dental X-rays can reveal:

• Hidden cavities between teeth

• Developing adult teeth beneath the gums

• Signs of infection, bone loss, or trauma

• Alignment issues that could impact future orthodontic needs

Think of dental X-rays as a superpower for prevention. They allow us to detect issues early—before they cause pain, require extensive treatment, or affect permanent tooth development

How Do Pediatric Dental X-Rays Work?

Dental X-rays work by using controlled beams of low-level radiation that pass through soft tissues like gums and cheeks but are absorbed by denser structures like teeth and bones. These rays create an image—either on film or a digital sensor—that shows the internal structure of your child’s mouth in sharp detail.

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we exclusively use digital X-ray technology, which offers numerous benefits over traditional X-rays:

Lower Radiation, Greater Safety

Digital dental X-rays emit up to 90% less radiation than conventional film X-rays. This makes them especially safe for children, whose developing tissues are more sensitive. We follow the ALARA principle—“As Low As Reasonably Achievable”—meaning we take the fewest, lowest-dose X-rays necessary for accurate diagnosis.

Instant Imaging

Digital sensors capture the image and send it straight to a computer screen—no waiting for film to develop. This means your child spends less time in the chair, and you get instant results to review with the dentist.

Clearer, More Detailed Results

Digital X-rays produce high-resolution images that can be enlarged, enhanced, or color-coded to help identify small issues like:

• Beginning stages of tooth decay

• Hairline cracks

• Impactions or positioning issues

• Subtle changes in bone structure

This level of detail allows us to diagnose and treat problems before they become more serious or painful.

Eco-Friendly and Efficient

Digital X-rays eliminate the need for film processing chemicals, making them a more environmentally friendly option—and a smoother, cleaner process overall.

Secure and Easy to Share

Your child’s X-ray images are stored securely in their digital dental record. This makes it easy for us to:

• Monitor changes over time

• Share images with orthodontists or specialists if needed

• Keep track of treatment progress

In short, pediatric digital dental X-rays are a safe, efficient, and essential tool in your child’s oral healthcare. They give us the ability to detect concerns early, treat conditions gently, and track the healthy development of your child’s teeth with confidence and care.

Why Are Dental X-Rays Important for Kids?

Children’s mouths are constantly changing—from baby teeth erupting and falling out, to permanent teeth shifting into place, to jaws growing and reshaping. With so much development happening below the surface, it’s impossible to rely on visual exams alone to assess oral health. That’s where pediatric dental X-rays come in.

Dental X-rays give us a clear view of what’s going on inside your child’s mouth—and allow us to prevent problems before they start or catch them early, while they’re easy to treat.

Detect Cavities Early

Cavities often form in places that can’t be seen during a regular exam—especially between tight baby teeth. X-rays help us:

• Identify small areas of decay before they spread

• Spot weakening enamel or early-stage damage

• Avoid more invasive treatments by catching issues early

  By detecting tooth decay in its earliest stages, we can provide minimally invasive, more affordable treatments, saving both teeth and stress.

Monitor Tooth and Jaw Development

As your child grows, we use X-rays to monitor how their adult teeth are forming and erupting under the gums. This helps us:

• Track growth patterns and ensure teeth are coming in on schedule

• Identify missing, extra, or impacted teeth (those stuck under the gum)

• Detect misalignment or overcrowding before it becomes severe

• Evaluate jaw and facial bone growth, especially important for orthodontic planning
  
  X-rays allow us to intervene early, often avoiding bigger issues like prolonged orthodontic treatment or tooth extractions down the road.

Evaluate Dental Injuries or Trauma

If your child falls, bumps their mouth, or experiences a dental emergency, things might look fine on the surface—but the real damage could be hidden.

Dental X-rays help us:

• Check for root fractures or nerve damage

• Identify tiny cracks in the tooth or surrounding bone

• Assess whether a developing adult tooth has been affected
  
  Quick imaging gives us the insight we need to act fast, protect future teeth, and avoid long-term complications.

4. Plan Preventive and Orthodontic Treatment

As part of your child’s long-term dental plan, X-rays guide us in:

• Determining if your child may need braces or space maintainers

• Understanding their bite alignment and jaw positioning

• Timing orthodontic referrals to avoid unnecessary treatment
  
  With detailed insight from X-rays, we can create a customized care plan that supports your child’s healthy smile as they grow.

Children have thinner enamel and faster-growing mouths, which means that dental issues can develop and spread more quickly than in adults. X-rays help us stay one step ahead—keeping your child’s oral health on track, and giving you peace of mind.

Types of Pediatric Dental X-Rays

Not all dental X-rays are created equal. At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we use a variety of pediatric dental X-ray types, depending on your child’s age, specific needs, and what we’re evaluating. Each type of X-ray gives us a unique view of your child’s developing smile.

Let’s break down the most common types we use:

Intraoral X-Rays (Taken Inside the Mouth)

These are the most frequently used X-rays in pediatric care. They give us highly detailed images of individual teeth and surrounding areas, helping us diagnose issues at the earliest stage

Bitewing X-Rays

• Show the upper and lower back teeth in one image..

• Best for spotting cavities between teeth—especially in tightly spaced baby teeth.

• Also helpful in detecting early signs of enamel weakening or dentin exposure.

Periapical X-Rays

• Capture an entire tooth from crown to root, including the bone around it.

Ideal for identifying:

• Deep tooth infections

• Abscesses

• Root damage from injury or trauma

Extraoral X-Rays (Taken Outside the Mouth)

These provide a broader view of the entire mouth, jaw, and even facial structure. They’re especially helpful for orthodontic planning and developmental assessments.

Panoramic X-Rays

• Capture a complete view of the entire mouth in one image.

• Show all teeth (both erupted and unerupted), jawbones, sinuses, and joint structures.

Often used to:

• Evaluate jaw growth

• Track tooth eruption paths

• Spot impacted or missing teeth

• Assess spacing for adult teeth or braces

Cephalometric X-Rays

• Take a side-profile view of the face and jaw.

Used mainly in orthodontic planning to:

• Analyze bite alignment

• Understand how the upper and lower jaws relate

• Plan treatments for overbites, underbites, or jaw development issues
  

When Do Children Need Dental X-Rays?

Unlike adult checkups, where dental X-rays may be more routine, pediatric dental X-rays are recommended based on your child’s unique needs—not just a set schedule. At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we take a conservative, personalized approach to ensure every X-ray we take is both necessary and beneficial.

Here’s when your child may need dental X-rays—and why they matter.

 1. First-Time Assessment (Typically Ages 4–6)

Most children receive their first dental X-rays between the ages of 4 and 6, when permanent teeth begin forming beneath the gums. This allows us to:

• Track how those adult teeth are developing

• Detect cavities that may not be visible

• Establish a baseline for future comparisons

In some cases, we may recommend earlier imaging if your child is at higher risk for decay or presents signs of a problem.

2. Suspected Cavities or Tooth Pain

Tooth decay often hides between the teeth or under the surface. If your child reports pain or sensitivity, or if we notice visual signs of enamel wear, X-rays help us:

• Pinpoint the source of discomfort

• Determine how deep the cavity is

• Decide the best treatment before things worsen

3. Dental Injuries or Trauma

Kids are adventurous, which sometimes leads to falls, bumps, or dental accidents. Even if everything looks okay, an X-ray can reveal:

• Fractures or damage to tooth roots

• Displacement of teeth

• Impact on underlying adult teeth

This is especially critical in playground injuries, sports collisions, or oral impact events.

4. Monitoring Growth & Development

From spacing issues to impaction and jaw misalignment, a lot can happen as your child’s mouth grows. X-rays help us:

• See if permanent teeth are erupting in the right direction

• Spot extra or missing teeth

• Monitor bite alignment and jaw symmetry

• Plan for braces or other interventions

This helps us recommend orthodontic care at the ideal time, potentially saving you time, money, and more complex treatment later.

5. Tracking Ongoing Conditions

If your child has had fillings, crowns, or developmental issues in the past, we may use periodic X-rays to:

• Check for signs of regression or new decay

• Monitor healing from past procedures

• Adjust treatment plans for continued progress

How We Decide

We consider multiple factors before recommending any X-ray, including:

• Your child’s age and stage of development

• Their dental history and cavity risk

• Presenting symptoms (pain, swelling, trauma)

• Ability to cooperate and remain still

• Whether a diagnosis is possible without imaging

The decision is never automatic—it’s made with care, transparency, and your child’s well-being in mind.

How Often Should Kids Get Dental X-Rays?

One of the most common questions we hear from parents is:

“How often does my child actually need dental X-rays?”

The answer? It depends on your child’s age, risk of tooth decay, oral hygiene habits, and dental history. At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in customized care—never one-size-fits-all. We only recommend X-rays when they provide valuable insights we can’t get from a visual exam alone.

Factors That Determine X-Ray Frequency

We take several things into account when deciding how often to take X-rays:

 Oral Health Status

• If your child has had multiple cavities, enamel issues, or previous dental work, we may recommend X-rays more frequently to monitor progress.

• A child with strong oral hygiene and no history of decay may only need occasional imaging.

Cavity Risk

We assess risk based on:

• Diet (high sugar = higher risk)

• Brushing and flossing consistency

• Family history of dental problems

• Fluoride exposure (tap water or toothpaste)

• Enamel defects or crowding
  

Age and Development Stage

• Younger children may need more frequent monitoring because their teeth and jaws are changing rapidly.

• As children grow and establish a history of good oral health, X-rays may be spaced further apart.

General Guidelines for Pediatric Dental X-Ray Frequency

Cavity Risk Level

Recommended X-Ray Frequency

High Risk

Every 6–12 months

Moderate Risk

Every 12–18 months

Low Risk

Every 18–36 months

These are general benchmarks. Your child’s actual schedule will be based on:

• Past dental findings

• Current symptoms

• Growth stage

• Their comfort level and cooperation during appointments

Always the Safest Approach

Even when we recommend X-rays, we follow the “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” (ALARA) principle, which means we:

• Take only the absolutely necessary images

• Use the lowest possible dose of radiation

• Customize the number and type of X-rays to your child’s specific needs

By monitoring your child’s oral development with care and precision, we can help prevent big problems from sneaking up—and ensure your child grows up with a healthy, confident smile.

Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Children?

We get it—just hearing the word “radiation” can make any parent feel uneasy. But here’s the good news: modern pediatric dental X-rays are incredibly safe, especially when performed with today’s digital technology and strict safety protocols.

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s well-being is our top priority. That’s why we take every precaution to keep radiation exposure as low as possible while still gaining the insight we need to care for your child’s developing smile.

Minimal Radiation, Maximum Safety

Thanks to digital dental X-ray systems, the amount of radiation your child is exposed to is extremely small, often less than what they’d absorb from a day in the sun or a short airplane ride.

To put it in perspective:

• A digital bitewing X-ray exposes your child to less radiation than a cross-country flight

• Compared to traditional X-rays, digital systems use up to 90% less radiation

Kid-Safe Practices We Follow

Here’s how we protect your child every single time:

Lead Aprons & Thyroid Collars

• Every child wears protective gear to shield their body, especially the thyroid, one of the most sensitive areas to radiation.

Digital X-Ray Sensors

• Our advanced sensors require far less exposure to produce crisp, detailed images, reducing both radiation and retakes.

The ALARA Principle

• This means “As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” We take only the X-rays your child needs, when they truly need them, and we never overdo it.

Pediatric Equipment

• We use smaller, child-friendly X-ray devices and sensors designed specifically for little mouths, making the experience both safer and more comfortable.

Reassurance for Parents

We understand that trusting someone with your child’s health isn’t taken lightly. That’s why we always take the time to:

• Explain the reason for any recommended X-ray

• Show you the results and how they guide our care

• Answer your questions openly—no pressure, no fear tactics

Your trust means everything to us. And if you're ever unsure or want to learn more about our equipment or procedures, we’re happy to walk you through every detail.

In short: yes, pediatric dental X-rays are safe, especially in the hands of a caring, experienced pediatric dental team. And when used wisely, they’re one of the best tools we have to protect your child’s long-term oral health.

Helping Your Child Prepare for a Dental X-Ray

We know that for some kids, anything unfamiliar—especially at the dentist—can feel a little intimidating. And while pediatric dental X-rays are quick, painless, and safe, your child may still need some reassurance before their visit.

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in empowering both kids and parents. Here's how to help your child feel calm, confident, and even curious about their upcoming X-ray experience.

Talk About It in a Kid-Friendly Way

Use simple, positive language to explain what’s going to happen. Avoid technical words like “radiation” or “exposure.” Instead, try:

“The dentist is going to take some cool pictures of your teeth using a magic camera. It doesn’t hurt at all—you just sit still like a statue for a few seconds!”

Be sure to frame it as something normal and helpful, like brushing or checking your height at the doctor’s office.

Read a Book or Watch a Video

Children's books and videos are great tools for easing dental anxiety. Look for ones about visiting the dentist or getting X-rays. Some favorites include:

• The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

• Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer

• Kid-friendly YouTube videos showing dental visits in real time

• These stories help your child visualize the process and feel more in control.

Practice with Pretend Play

Turn your living room into a mini dental office and walk through the X-ray process:

• Let your child sit in a chair like a dental chair

• Use a phone or toy as a pretend "camera"

• Practice holding still for a few seconds while you take their “tooth picture”

• Praise them for being calm and brave

• This makes the actual visit feel more familiar—and even a little fun!

Celebrate Bravery and Cooperation

Kids thrive on encouragement! Let your child know you’re proud of their bravery—even before the appointment.

Afterward, celebrate with something special:

• A trip to the park

• Their favorite smoothie

• A sticker or small prize

Positive reinforcement helps build confidence and makes future visits even smoother.

With just a little preparation, your child can walk into their appointment feeling curious instead of cautious—and walk out feeling proud and empowered.

Beyond X-Rays: Building Lifelong Healthy Dental Habits

While pediatric dental X-rays are a valuable tool in monitoring and protecting your child’s smile, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. The foundation of a healthy mouth begins at home—with everyday habits that support strong teeth, fresh breath, and confident smiles.

Here’s how to help your child develop great oral hygiene routines that last a lifetime.

Brush Twice a Day (For Two Full Minutes)

Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as they appear—and supervise until at least age 6 or 7. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Pro Tip: Make it fun! Try a 2-minute song, a brushing app, or a reward chart to turn brushing into a game instead of a chore.

Floss Daily

Even baby teeth need flossing! Food and plaque love to hide between teeth, and brushing alone can’t always reach those tight spots.

• Use kid-friendly floss picks or soft flossers

• Help your child floss until they can do it gently and effectively on their own

Flossing helps prevent cavities between teeth—a common reason kids need X-rays in the first place.

Eat and Drink with Teeth in Mind

Your child’s diet plays a big role in oral health. Encourage:

• Water over sugary juices or sodas

• Healthy snacks like fruits, veggies, cheese, and nuts

• Limiting sticky or hard candies that cling to enamel

Too much sugar = more acid = higher cavity risk. Keeping snacking in check supports both smiles and overall health.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Routine checkups—typically every six months—allow us to:

• Clean hard-to-reach spots

• Monitor growth and development

• Catch issues early before they become painful or expensive

Even if everything looks fine, X-rays and professional exams give us the full picture, especially for kids who are growing and changing quickly.

Set a Positive Tone Around Dental Visits

Your attitude matters. Kids mirror their parents—so if you stay calm and confident about dental care, they’re more likely to feel the same.

• Use encouraging language

• Avoid negative phrases like “It won’t hurt” or “Just be brave”

• Frame each appointment as a step toward a strong, healthy smile

By combining excellent hygiene, smart habits, and regular care, you can help reduce your child’s need for restorative treatments—and make every visit to the dentist a positive, empowering experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dental X-Rays

We know parents have questions—and we’re always here to answer them with clarity, care, and confidence. Here are some of the most common questions we receive about dental X-rays for children.

Are dental X-rays safe for toddlers?

Yes. Modern digital dental X-rays are extremely safe, even for toddlers. They use a very low dose of radiation, and we always take extra steps like using lead aprons and thyroid collars to protect your child. We only recommend X-rays when necessary for diagnosis or treatment planning.

How long does a child’s dental X-ray take?

Just a few seconds! Most pediatric X-rays take less than 5 seconds per image. With our fast, kid-friendly technology, the entire X-ray portion of your child’s visit is typically complete in just a few minutes.

Do dental X-rays hurt?

Not at all. Dental X-rays are completely painless and non-invasive. Your child may feel a small sensor in their mouth (similar to biting on a cracker), but it’s quick, gentle, and doesn’t cause discomfort.

Can I say no to dental X-rays for my child?

Absolutely—you’re in charge of your child’s care. At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we explain why we’re recommending an X-ray, how it benefits your child, and answer any questions you have. We support open, judgment-free conversations so you feel empowered to make informed choices.

How often should my child get dental X-rays?

It depends! Children at higher risk for cavities may need X-rays every 6 to 12 months, while low-risk children may only need them every 18 to 36 months. We assess each child individually based on their dental history, age, hygiene habits, and risk level.

When should my child get their first dental X-ray?

Most children get their first X-ray between the ages of 4 and 6, when their adult teeth start developing beneath the gums. Some may need them earlier if we’re tracking a concern or your child is at higher risk for tooth decay.

Does my child need an X-ray after a dental injury?

Yes—if your child has had a fall, impact, or mouth injury, X-rays help us check for:

• Cracks or fractures

• Damage to roots or permanent teeth below

• Bone or nerve trauma

Even if everything looks fine on the outside, X-rays give us peace of mind that nothing is missed.

Let us know if there's a question we didn’t answer—we’re happy to explain everything in clear, comforting language.

Conclusion

Your child’s smile is more than just adorable—it’s a reflection of their health, confidence, and well-being. At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help you protect that smile every step of the way.

Pediatric dental X-rays are one of the most effective tools we have to:

• Detect dental problems early

• Monitor growth and development

• Plan personalized treatments

• Prevent discomfort and long-term issues

Best of all, they’re safe, fast, and gentle, especially when guided by a team that truly understands children and cares deeply about your peace of mind.

By combining regular dental checkups, healthy habits at home, and modern tools like digital X-rays, we can work together to set your child up for a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.

Whether your child is due for their first X-ray, needs a checkup, or just has questions about their teeth, we’re here to help. Call Dr. Joby Hurst at (205) 969-7454. Let’s make your child’s next dental visit something to smile about.