Yes. The small number of dental X Ray images we take to decide whether a child needs sealants exposes them to very low radiation. At Dr. Jerry Ashrafi we use modern digital imaging, follow the principle of keeping dose as low as reasonably achievable, and choose imaging only when it adds value to a sealant recommendation.
What is dental X Ray exposure for sealants
Dental X Ray exposure refers to the ionizing radiation a child receives when we take radiographs to check for decay or to assess tooth anatomy before placing sealants. For sealant decisions we usually rely on a clinical exam first. X Ray images are used when the exam leaves uncertainty about small pits and fissures between teeth, previous decay, or the stage of eruption of molars.
We use digital bitewing or periapical images when they will change our treatment plan. Digital sensors lower exposure compared with older film, and modern equipment records the image faster and with less radiation.
Why this matters to families in New York
Parents ask about radiation because children have more years ahead and because many families are cautious about medical imaging. In a dense city like New York, children may receive images for different reasons at school, at pediatric visits, and at the dentist. We coordinate with caregivers, pediatricians, and other offices so we do not take unnecessary images.
Dr. Jerry Ashrafi, DMD, MA, PLLC is a licensed and insured pediatric dental practice. We tailor imaging to each child s needs and follow professional guidance to limit cumulative exposure while making safe, evidence based decisions about sealants.
Key concepts parents should know
- Digital imaging. Digital bitewing and periapical sensors use far less radiation than older film systems, and they give clear images for detecting decay between teeth.
- ALARA principle. We follow the principle of keeping radiation as low as reasonably achievable, which means imaging only when it will change care.
- When X Ray helps. Images are most useful when a tooth is partially erupted, when exam findings are unclear, or when a child has a higher risk of cavities.
- When X Ray is not needed. If a child has fully erupted healthy molars and no signs of decay, sealant decisions are often made without X Ray images.
- Shielding and technique. We use proper positioning, fast sensors, and appropriate shielding for comfort and safety.
How we decide whether to take an image before sealants
Our decision is clinical and risk based. We look at the child s age, cavity risk, tooth eruption, previous dental history, and what we see on exam. If an X Ray will reveal hidden decay that changes whether we place a sealant or do a different treatment, we will recommend imaging. If the image is unlikely to change the plan, we skip it.
Typical steps in our process
- Clinical exam. We examine pits and fissures and review the child s cavity history and home care.
- Assess risk. Low risk children with sound molars often do not need an image before sealants.
- Image only if needed. If the exam leaves doubt about decay between teeth or under previous restorations, we take a bitewing or targeted periapical image.
- Discuss findings. We explain what the image shows, how it affects sealant choice, and what follow up is needed.
Imaging types and when we use them for sealant decisions
| Imaging type | When we use it | What it shows |
|---|---|---|
| Bitewing | When we suspect decay between back teeth or need to screen molars that are partly erupted | Shows contact areas and early interproximal cavities |
| Periapical | When we need a detailed view of a single tooth, root, or eruption position | Shows full tooth and root structure |
| Panoramic | Rarely for sealant decisions; used for broad overviews of jaw development | Shows all teeth and developing dentition, less detail on contacts |
| No radiograph | When clinical exam clearly shows healthy, fully erupted molars with low cavity risk | No radiation, decision based on visual exam |
Common questions parents ask
How much radiation will my child get from one dental image
One modern digital bitewing exposes a child to a very small amount of radiation, typically far less than a day of natural background radiation. The exact number varies by equipment and technique, which is why we emphasize limiting images to those that change care. For general guidance the U.S. Food and Drug Administration explains relative dose levels for dental imaging.
Will sealants require regular X Ray checks afterward
No. Sealants themselves do not require X Rays. We schedule routine checkups to look at sealants, and we take images only if there are signs of decay, problems with adjacent teeth, or if a clinical exam suggests it would change treatment.
Are there long term risks from the X Ray images we take for sealants
The long term risk from the small number of dental images used in pediatric dentistry is extremely low when imaging follows accepted practice. Still, we only take images that will influence treatment and we use protective techniques to reduce exposure.
Do we need X Rays if my child has had images at school or another clinic
We review outside records when available and avoid repeating images unnecessarily. If you can share prior images or reports, we will consider them before recommending new imaging.
Related services that fit with sealant planning
Sealant decisions often sit alongside routine care. If you want to learn more about each step we link to pages that describe the services we provide.
- Dental Sealants for protecting molars from decay.
- Dental Imaging to evaluate hidden decay when needed.
- Dental Checkup visits that guide preventive choices and timing.
- Dental Cleaning and fluoride treatments that work with sealants to reduce cavities.
Related locations we serve
We serve families across New York, New York and nearby neighborhoods. If you want localized information about care near you, see our New York location page for details about the practice and how we serve city families.
Helpful resources and guidance
For trustworthy background on dental imaging and safety, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidance on dental X rays and the American Dental Association s resources on radiography. For general background on X rays you can review the overview on Wikipedia. We also keep a practice topic page that explains X Ray exposure in plain language.
Pro tip: If your child has had recent dental images elsewhere, bring the images or reports to the visit. Reviewing prior images often avoids repeat exposure.
Key takeaway
Dental X Ray exposure for sealant decisions is very low when we use modern digital imaging and follow accepted professional practices. We take images only when they will change treatment and we explain the reason and benefit to every family.
Frequently asked questions
Do sealants themselves expose a child to radiation
No. Sealants are a surface coating applied to teeth and do not involve radiation. Any X Ray exposure comes only from images we take to evaluate the teeth before or after placement.
How often might my child need X Ray images at the dentist
Frequency depends on exam findings and cavity risk. Low risk children who show healthy teeth on exam often need images less frequently. Children with higher risk or unclear clinical findings may need targeted images at intervals we will explain.
Is there a difference in safety between digital and film X rays
Yes. Digital imaging typically requires less radiation than older film systems and provides faster, clearer images. That is why most pediatric practices now use digital sensors.
Will you always use a lead apron
We use protective measures appropriate for the child and the image type. For many pediatric images we use shields or aprons as recommended by professional guidance and by the equipment manufacturer.
Want to learn more about our approach
Read family focused information and related topics on our site, check the practice Google Business Profile for reviews and directions, and review the pages that describe our services and imaging practices.