Our Services / X-Rays

X-Rays services offered in Denver, CO

X-rays play a significant role in pediatric dentistry and are available through the care of Leslie Murray, DMD, and the team at Iris Pediatric Dentistry in Denver, Colorado. They allow evaluation of health and development of teeth and help ensure your child gets the care needed for a lifetime of good dental health. To learn more, schedule an appointment online or by phone today.

X-Rays Q & A

What is an X-ray?

X-ray technology uses a type of radiation called electromagnetic waves to create pictures of the body’s internal structures. In pediatric dentistry, X-rays give dentists a detailed view of your child’s tooth and bone structure, as well as the development of permanent teeth that haven’t even come into the mouth yet.

These images are used in many different ways. Some of the ways Dr. Murray might use your child’s X-rays include:

Diagnosing cavities between teeth
Identifying bone disease
Determining if there are missing permanent teeth or teeth trapped beneath the gum line
Preparing for braces or other orthodontic care

Your child’s X-rays become part of their permanent dental record and are also used to track changes over time.

How often are X-rays taken?

What a great question! That depends on the child and the presentation of their teeth. Kids with a low risk of dental decay, or other dental health issues need fewer X-rays, but those with higher risk levels may need X-ray imaging as often as twice a year.

In general, x-rays are not needed for infant exams unless there is s specific concern, but for children and teens x-rays are used at the first visit at Iris Pediatric Dentistry. From that point forward, x-rays are taken only when needed and in alignment with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines.

Some children struggle with taking x-rays, but the team at Iris Pediatric Dentistry has methods to modify and assist your child to ensure the process is as easy as possible. Films that are held inside the mouth next to the teeth often produce the most clear image, but in some cases we can even use a machine that takes similar x-rays without placing anything inside the mouth!

Are X-rays safe for my child?

All X-rays create exposure to a certain level of radiation. However, today’s technology limits exposure, which makes this form of imaging a safe and effective way to learn more about teeth and bone structure. Dr. Murray utilized digital x-rays which have much lower levels of radiation compared to traditional x-ray films.

Kids wear a special lead vest to prevent X-ray beams from reaching beyond the area of focus. Modern equipment also requires less time to create the images, which further reduces radiation exposure. Dr. Murray also is thoughtful in her planning of x-rays to ensure they are only taken when needed.

It’s estimated that one dental X-ray creates around the same level of exposure that your child would naturally receive from their everyday environment over a period of 10 days.

If you have additional questions or concerns about dental X-rays, call the office to set up a visit. Online booking is also an option and takes just moments to complete.