Tooth Calendar Blog
Are Dental X-Rays Safe for Kids? Radiation Dose and the Lead Apron Change
Dental X-rays use very little radiation, and skipping a needed one can mean a missed cavity. Why they're taken, why lead apron advice changed, and what to ask.
At a glance
- A small X-ray inside the mouth uses very little radiation
- Advice on lead aprons changed in 2024
- It's fine to ask why an X-ray is needed
When the dentist says, "Let's take an X-ray," it's natural to worry about radiation for your child. And it's even more confusing that some dental offices no longer use the lead apron that used to be standard. Here's why dental X-rays are needed, how safe they are, and what you can ask.
How little radiation, and why X-rays are taken
We all receive a little natural radiation every day from the ground, the air, and food. One small X-ray taken inside the mouth uses very little radiation. Even a panoramic X-ray of the whole jaw is about a few days' worth of natural background radiation.
Still, kids are more sensitive to radiation than adults. That's why current guidelines focus on taking only the X-rays that are truly needed, at the lowest dose. X-rays are a tool for diagnosis, not a routine scheduled test. Age alone isn't a reason to take them, and earlier X-rays are used when available.
X-rays are needed because there are places you can't see with your eyes. The spaces between snug molars, cavities spreading inside a tooth, and permanent teeth still in the gums can't be seen from the outside. Skipping a needed X-ray can mean missing these cavities, which can lead to bigger treatment later.
Advice on lead aprons has changed recently. Lead aprons and thyroid collars used to be standard for dental X-rays. Following a 2023 recommendation from the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, the American Dental Association announced in 2024 that it no longer recommends them for any patient, including children and pregnant women. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry adopted this in 2025. There are three reasons.
- Digital sensors and devices that narrow the beam have greatly cut the dose.
- Shields can't block radiation scattered inside the body.
- Shields can get in the way of the image and lead to retakes.
Ask questions and help your child during the X-ray
Feel free to ask anything. Asking isn't rude.
- "Why is this X-ray needed?"
- "Can earlier X-rays be used?" If your child has X-rays from another dental office, let them know ahead of time.
- If a 3D scan (CBCT) is suggested: "Why isn't a regular X-ray enough?"
- If you need to hold your child during the X-ray, ask whether you need a shield.
Explain it to your child in a short, matter-of-fact way, like "The camera is taking a picture of your teeth. You just need to stay still for a moment." Biting on the sensor may feel strange, but it's over quickly. Staying still means fewer retakes.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need X-rays at every checkup?
No. How often bitewing X-rays, which check for cavities between the molars, are taken depends on cavity risk. A general guide is every 6–12 months for high risk and every 12–24 months for low risk.
At what age do kids start getting X-rays?
There's no set age. Age alone isn't the reason. The dentist decides when there's a reason to check, such as molars that are touching so the spaces can't be seen, or a suspected cavity.
Is it okay if they don't put a lead apron on my child?
Under current guidance, it isn't routinely needed. Offices that use one may be following their own rules, so either way, follow your dentist's guidance.
Can I refuse X-rays if I'm worried about radiation?
Refusing a needed X-ray can mean missing cavities you can't see. Rather than refusing, ask why it's needed and whether it has to be done now, and decide together with your dentist.
I'm pregnant. Can I stay with my child during the X-ray?
Let the office know you're pregnant ahead of time, and talk about whether you need to hold your child, whether you need a shield, and whether another caregiver could do it instead.
Talk with your dentist if
- An X-ray was suggested and you're wondering why
- A 3D scan (CBCT) was suggested
- Your child had X-rays recently at another dental office
- Food often gets stuck between the molars or chewing hurts
- Your child hurt a tooth in a fall or bump
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Sources
The information in this article is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional dental care. Talk to a dentist about your child's condition.