Pediatric X-Rays in Torrance, CA

Digital technology: We use digital X-rays, which produce up to 90% less radiation than traditional film.

Conservative approach: Dr. Brianne Hama follows the ALARA principle, recommending X-rays only when clinically necessary.

Board-certified expertise: Dr. Bri, a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, evaluates each child individually.
Comprehensive imaging: We offer bitewing, periapical, and panoramic radiographs to monitor your child’s development.

“But does my child really need x-rays?” It is one of the most common questions parents ask at the dental office, and it is a fair one. Radiation is a topic that understandably gets a lot of attention, especially in parent communities, and it makes complete sense to want to know exactly what your child is being exposed to and why. The good news is that modern digital dental x-rays, when used thoughtfully, are both safe and genuinely valuable for your child’s oral health.

At SoCal Pediatric Dentistry in Torrance, Dr. Brianne Hama takes a conservative, evidence-based approach to dental radiographs. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry with training at NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Bri understands that minimizing radiation exposure in children is a priority, and she follows it closely. Our pediatric dental services are built around doing what is right for each child at each stage of their development, and that philosophy extends directly to how and when x-rays are recommended.

Why Dental X-Rays Matter for Kids

So much of what is happening with your child’s teeth and jaw cannot be seen with the naked eye. Cavities that form between teeth, infections developing beneath the gumline, permanent teeth that have not yet erupted, and changes in bone development are all things that only a radiograph can reveal. Without this information, small problems can quietly become bigger ones before any visible signs appear.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s best practice guidelines on prescribing dental radiographs emphasize that x-rays should be used to diagnose oral diseases and trauma, monitor growth and development, and assess treatment outcomes — with strong emphasis on minimizing radiation in the pediatric population. At SoCal Pediatric Dentistry, x-rays are never taken as a formality. Dr. Bri evaluates each child individually and recommends radiographs only when the clinical benefit justifies them.

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The Types of X-Rays We Use

We use different types of x-rays here at SoCal Pediatric Dentistry depending on the needs of your child.

Bitewing and Periapical Radiographs

Bitewing x-rays are the most common type taken at a dental visit and are used to check for cavities between the back teeth, where decay often hides. Periapical x-rays capture the full length of individual teeth, including the roots and surrounding bone, making them useful for evaluating infections or other concerns below the gumline. Both are intraoral x-rays, meaning a small sensor is placed inside the mouth to capture the image. These are the standard diagnostic radiographic tools in pediatric dentistry, used when a child’s clinical risk factors and development warrant them.

Panoramic Radiographs

A panoramic x-ray captures a broad view of the entire mouth in a single image — including all teeth, the jaws, and surrounding bone. This type of radiograph is particularly valuable for evaluating how permanent teeth are developing and erupting, identifying any that may be impacted or out of position, detect possible bone or developmental abnormalities, and assessing overall jaw growth. At SoCal Pediatric Dentistry, digital panoramic radiographs are available as a tool for monitoring your child’s development over time.

How We Minimize Radiation Exposure

We use digital x-rays, which produce up to 90% less radiation than traditional film x-rays. Beyond the technology itself, our approach to when x-rays are taken is guided by the ALARA principle, As Low As Reasonably Achievable, meaning radiation exposure is always kept to the lowest level possible while still obtaining the information needed for accurate diagnosis. X-rays are recommended only on an as-needed basis, based on each child’s individual risk profile, dental history, and developmental stage.

Families who have questions or concerns before an appointment are always welcome to ask, we want you to feel fully informed before any procedure takes place. To learn more about what to expect at your child’s visit, including how we approach new patients, take a look at our first visit page.

Why Choose SoCal Pediatric Dentistry for Your Child's Dental Care?

Not every dental office takes the same level of care in determining when radiographs are truly necessary. Dr. Bri’s board certification through the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry reflects a commitment to the highest clinical standards in children’s dental care, and that commitment shows up in how thoughtfully every recommendation is made.

Dr. Bri completed her residency and pediatric specialty training at New York University College of Dentistry, with focused experience in the full range of children’s oral health needs across all ages and developmental stages. You can read more about her background and approach to care.

Schedule Your Child's Appointment at SoCal Pediatric Dentistry

Every recommendation made at SoCal Pediatric Dentistry — including whether your child needs x-rays — starts with your child’s individual needs, not a checklist. Dr. Brianne Hama and the team are here to keep your child’s smile healthy while keeping you informed every step of the way.

When you are ready to schedule or if you have questions before your visit, contact our office and we will be happy to help.