If a picture’s worth a thousand words, dental digital x-rays are all that, plus some extra time and money!
Digital dental x-rays are essential in modern preventive dentistry, helping detect oral health issues in their early stages. However, parents and pregnant women often worry about their safety. Fortunately, modern technology facilitates these precise diagnoses through lower radiation x-rays for kids and pregnant women (and everyone else!)!
Why Digital X-Rays Are Safer
Digital x-rays use up to 80 percent less radiation than traditional ones. Since their digital sensors are more sensitive, they require less exposure to capture clear images, making digital x-rays safe for kids and expectant mothers.
It’s also worth noting that dental clinics typically use lead aprons and thyroid collars to further protect patients — especially those in vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women — from residual exposure.
Safety Considerations for Children
Dental x-rays for children help monitor growth and development, detect cavities, and assess potential orthodontic needs. Dentists minimize exposure by:
- Using digital technology to minimize radiation.
- Only taking X-rays when absolutely necessary for diagnosis or treatment planning.
- Providing protective aprons and collars to shield sensitive areas.
With these precautions, digital x-rays are a safe and effective diagnostic tool for children.
Safety Guidelines for Pregnant Women
While it’s best to avoid any radiation during pregnancy, dental emergencies or infections may necessitate digital dental x-rays during pregnancy. In such cases, dentists take extra steps to ensure safety:
- As with children, limiting x-rays to essential cases only.
- Shielding the mother’s abdomen with a lead apron while capturing images.
- Using high-speed digital sensors to minimize exposure.
Using the latest technology and prioritizing patient safety, dental practices ensure that digital x-rays remain a vital tool for early diagnosis.
Low Radiation Digital X-Rays for Kids and Pregnant Women in New Orleans
If you’re in New Orleans and looking for a top-quality dental practice that uses the latest technology, including digital x-rays, to ensure the precision and safety of every procedure, contact dentist Dr. Richard M. Rathke and the excellent Downtown Dental team to schedule an appointment!