Breaking Down the Types of X-Rays at Your Child’s Dental Appointment

Understanding Pediatric Dental X-Rays: What Every Parent Should Know

Dental X-rays are an essential part of maintaining your child’s oral health, but many parents understandably have questions:

• What types of X-rays will be taken?
• Why would a dentist need to take them more than once a year?

At Cibolo Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we believe in keeping parents informed and confident about their child’s dental care. Here’s a simple guide to understanding the role of dental X-rays — and when multiple images might be necessary.

Why Are X-Rays Important in Pediatric Dentistry?

Dental X-rays help our doctors see what the eye cannot — beneath the surface of your child’s gums and inside developing teeth. This allows our team to:

• Monitor tooth development and eruption patterns
• Detect cavities between teeth before they cause pain
• Evaluate bone health and jaw growth
• Spot infections or impacted teeth early
• Plan for future orthodontic treatment

In short, they’re a preventive tool that supports early diagnosis and treatment — and in many cases, they help avoid larger procedures later.

The Different Types of Pediatric Dental X-Rays

Here are the most common types of dental X-rays we use at our Cibolo office:

1. Bitewing X-Rays

These show the upper and lower back teeth and how they touch when your child bites down. They help spot decay between the teeth and check how dental fillings are holding up.

2. Periapical X-Rays

This type focuses on one or two teeth, capturing the entire tooth from crown to root. It’s often used to check for abscesses, root issues, or trauma.

3. Panoramic X-Rays

Taken with a special machine that rotates around the head, this image captures all the teeth, upper and lower jaws, and surrounding structures. It’s ideal for evaluating:

• Tooth positioning
• Missing or extra teeth
• Cysts or tumors
• Planning orthodontic care or tooth extractions

Panoramic X-rays are especially helpful during free orthodontic consultations that we offer at Cibolo Pediatric Dentistry.

4. Occlusal X-Rays

These capture the floor or roof of the mouth and help track tooth development, detect extra teeth, and spot jaw fractures or cysts.

Why Would My Child Need X-Rays More Than Once a Year?

While many children only need X-rays once per year, some may benefit from more frequent imaging, especially if they:

• Are at higher risk of cavities
• Are undergoing orthodontic treatment
• Have pain, trauma, or swelling
• Are being monitored for a specific dental concern

For example, if your child is being treated with pulpotomy or dental crowns, more frequent X-rays help track healing and prevent complications.

Our providers always evaluate necessity, taking care to limit radiation exposure using modern, low-radiation digital imaging.

Safe, Comfortable, and Quick Imaging for Kids

At Cibolo Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, your child’s safety and comfort come first. Our team uses:

• Kid-sized digital sensors
• Protective lead aprons
• Minimal exposure times

We walk your child through every step, making the process quick and stress-free.

Pediatric Dentists Who Keep You Informed

Our board-certified pediatric dentists, including Dr. Lauren Digioia, Dr. Joanna Ayala, and Dr. Krystal Moya, are here to partner with you on your child’s health journey. And if your child needs orthodontic treatment, Dr. Patricia Reese brings over a decade of expertise in creating healthy, confident smiles.

We’re proud to serve families in Cibolo and surrounding communities, offering:

• Same-day emergency appointments
• Sedation options for anxious kids
• Advanced diagnostic imaging
• A fun, friendly environment that makes kids want to return

Schedule Your Child’s Next Visit Today

Still have questions about your child’s dental X-rays or what to expect during their appointment? We’re here to help. Call us at (210) 361-2228 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Related Blogs

• Importance of Regular Cleanings and Exams
• The Journey of Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit
• Why Early Dental Exams Are Crucial for Kids