Digital dental X-rays are an important diagnostic tool that helps detect cavities, monitor dental development, and identify problems that may not be visible during a regular exam. These images support early intervention and more precise treatment planning.
We use low-radiation digital X-ray systems designed specifically for children to ensure safe, accurate, and comfortable care.
We offer pediatric digital dental X-rays at our pediatric dental office in St. Petersburg, FL.
Key Takeaway
Digital dental X-rays provide faster, safer, and more accurate diagnostics to support early treatment and a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Why We Use Digital X-Rays in Pediatric Dentistry
Digital dental X-rays, also called digital radiographs, are an essential diagnostic tool in modern dentistry. They give us a precise view of your child’s teeth, roots, bones, and surrounding oral structures, often before anything is visible to the eye.
Compared to traditional X-rays, digital radiography offers:
- Lower levels of radiation exposure
- Faster diagnosis and treatment planning
- Clearer images that can be enlarged or enhanced
- No need for X-ray film or harmful chemicals
- A permanent digital record of your child’s treatments
Digital imaging technologies also allow us to share and review results instantly, so that you can be involved in your child’s care every step of the way.
Did You Know?
Digital dental X-rays can catch tiny cavities between teeth and other hidden issues before they become painful or require invasive treatment. Early detection means gentler care.
What Do Pediatric Dental X-Rays Show?
Digital X-rays help us detect a wide range of dental issues and support early, preventive care. Depending on your child’s age and needs, we may use intraoral digital X-rays, panoramic X-rays, or even 3D dental X-rays.
We use X-rays to assess:
- Tooth decay, especially between teeth
- Cavities below the surface
- Abnormalities in teeth or bone development
- The position of unerupted teeth
- Gum health and signs of bone loss
- Damage from a broken tooth or past injury
- Need for specific dental procedures, like space maintainers
- The development of tooth nerves and jaw structure
By capturing precise images of your child’s dental structures, we gain a significant advantage in diagnosis that helps us build a personalized treatment plan to support their lifelong dental health.
Are Digital X-Rays Safe for Kids?
Your child’s safety is our top priority. Digital dental X-rays use the lowest radiation dose possible, up to 90 percent less than traditional dental X-rays. We take extra precautions, such as shielding and limiting exposure time, to further minimize your child’s contact with radiation.
Because we use digital X-ray technology, there is no need for film processing, meaning your child is not exposed to harmful chemicals commonly used with traditional methods.
Fast Facts About Digital X-Rays
Reduce radiation exposure by up to 80%
Instant results for faster treatment
No harmful chemicals from film processing
Clearer, more detailed images for early detection
How Often Will My Child Need X-Rays?
We take pediatric dental X-rays based on your child’s individual needs and dental condition. Some children may need X-rays more frequently due to a history of cavities or orthodontic concerns, while others may require them only once every year or two.
Our experienced team will recommend a safe schedule that helps us:
- Monitor growth and development
- Catch problems early
- Avoid invasive treatments later on
- Track progress during treatment
- Maintain an accurate record of treatments
Each digital X-ray is part of a larger picture that supports your child’s long-term dental care plan.
Safety First
Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry uses pediatric-safe digital imaging with the lowest radiation dose possible. We also use protective shielding and limit exposure time to keep your child safe at every visit.
Advanced Technology for Personalized Care
We believe great dental care combines modern dentistry with a gentle, child-focused approach. That is why our digital X-ray systems are designed to be:
- Comfortable and quick
- Adapted to small mouths and young patients
- Highly accurate with detailed X-ray images
- Supportive of early diagnosis and convenient treatment options
Your Local Home for Children’s Smiles
You can find us in our bright yellow building with blue shutters, right off MLK Jr. Street near Gandy Boulevard. Our cheerful office, painted bright yellow with blue shutters, is a welcoming home for pediatric dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL.
We accept most PPO dental insurance plans and are in-network with many providers, helping families in St. Petersburg, FL receive high-quality pediatric care with predictable costs.
Schedule an Appointment in St. Petersburg, FL
Whether it is a routine dental checkup or diagnostic imaging for a specific concern, we are here to help.
To book an appointment, at our pediatric dental office in St. Petersburg, FL, call (727) 914-6611 or visit us at 8525 Dr MLK Jr St N St Petersburg, FL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental X-rays digital now?
At Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we use only digital dental X-rays for our pediatric patients. This method is faster, safer, and provides clearer images than traditional X-ray film.
Are digital dental X-rays better than film?
Digital X-rays offer many advantages over traditional radiographs. They use less radiation, produce immediate results, and provide more detailed images, making diagnosis and treatment faster and more accurate.
What are the disadvantages of using digital X-rays in dentistry?
The main limitation is the need for specialized technology and training. However, at Sunny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, our team is fully trained in digital imaging techniques and uses cutting-edge technology for every patient.
How often should my child have dental X-rays?
The frequency of dental X-rays varies. Children with a higher risk of cavities may benefit from X-rays every six months, while those with a lower risk may only need them yearly or less, based on your dentist’s recommendation.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. Digital dental X-rays are safer than traditional film X-rays and use about 70% less radiation. Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect your child during the X-ray process.
Why do dental professionals leave the room during X-rays?
Dental professionals step out of the room during X-rays to avoid repeated exposure to radiation throughout the day. While the radiation dose from a single X-ray is minimal, cumulative exposure over time can be significant for dental staff. However, that being said, our dental assistants use a handheld X-ray machine, and they do not step out of the room.
Are dental X-rays necessary if my child’s teeth look fine?
Many dental problems start below the surface and are not visible to the eye. X-rays help us catch small issues early, before they become bigger concerns.
