Which demographic is more susceptible to radiation damage?

Children are more susceptible to radiation damage due to several factors related to their biological development. Their cells are dividing and growing rapidly, which makes them more sensitive to the effects of ionizing radiation compared to adults. The higher rate of cell division means that there is a greater chance for radiation to cause mutations and other types of damage during critical stages of development.

Additionally, children's bodies are smaller, which means that the same dose of radiation can have a relatively larger impact on their tissues compared to adults. Their tissues are still developing, making them less able to repair damage than those of adults who have fully matured. This heightened vulnerability underscores the importance of minimizing radiation exposure in pediatric dental practices and ensuring that any necessary radiographic imaging is justified and conducted with the lowest possible dose.