Office Hours Tuesday-Thursday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Friday: 8:00AM - 1:00PM
Office Location
Phone: 712-580-3300
Fax: 712-580-4328
14 East 4th Street
Spencer, IA 51301

X-Ray Use and Safety


How often should a child have dental X-ray films?

Since every child is unique, the need for dental X-ray films varies from child to child. Films are taken only after reviewing your child’s health, and only when they are likely to yield information that a visual examination cannot. In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. They are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. In general, children need X-rays more often than adults. Their mouths grow and change rapidly. They are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends X-ray examinations every six months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. Children with low risk of tooth decay require X-rays less frequently.

Why should X-ray films be taken if my child has never had a cavity?

X-ray films detect much more than cavities. For example, X-rays may be needed to survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone diseases, evaluate the results of an injury, or plan orthodontic treatment. X-rays allow dentists to diagnose and treat conditions that cannot be detected during a clinical examination. If dental problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable and affordable.

Will X-rays be taken at every appointment?

No. Our office, acting in accord with guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommend X-rays only when necessary to protect your child's dental health. Therefore, the frequency of X-ray films is determined by your child’s individual needs.

How safe are dental X-rays?

Our office is particularly careful to minimize the exposure of child patients to radiation. With contemporary safeguards, like low-radiation digital x-rays used at our office, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small. In fact, dental X-rays represent a far smaller risk than undetected and untreated dental problems.

How will my child be protected from X-ray exposure?

Lead body aprons and shields help protect your child. Today’s equipment filters out unnecessary X-rays and restricts the X-ray beam to the area of interest. High-speed film, digital X-rays, and proper shielding assure that your child receives a minimal amount of radiation exposure.