Expert: Gary Backlund, DMD, MSD - 11/4/2008

Question
1 week ago my 2 year old hit his mouth on a step when he fell.  We have been to the pediatric dentist twice, but she has not taken x-rays.  She has said to come back again in 2 weeks.  The teeth are still loose and she started discussing root canals and possibly abstraction.  I understand the hope is that the teeth will tighten up in the next 2 weeks, but what is the rationale behind not taking x-rays?  Wouldn't they provide insight as to whether the teeth are going to heal with out future procedures?

Answer
Hi Tori,

I'm sorry to hear about your 2 year old. These things are so traumatic...to the kids and parents alike.

Unfortunately, X-rays really don't tell us much. They only show bone and tooth root, not the condition of the pulp or the tissues holding the teeth in. These are the main areas of concern at this time and they just don't show. The only thing an Xray would show is whether the root is broken and in primary teeth, that rarely happens....the teeth are just moved in the gum. It sounds to me like your pedodontist is using good judgement to not expose your child to unnecessary radiation.

Hope this helps.

Gary Backlund DMD, MSD