See More of Your Oral Health With Digital Imaging
Some dental concerns develop where they cannot be seen during a visual examination. At Blissful Dental, Dr. Brenda E. Howard uses digital X-rays in Lanham, Maryland, to gather information that supports diagnosis and personalized treatment planning for adults.
Call 301-552-2662 to schedule an examination and discuss your dental concerns.
What Are Digital Dental X-Rays?
Digital dental X-rays use an electronic sensor or imaging plate to capture radiographic images that can be viewed on a computer. The images provide information about teeth, roots and supporting bone that complements the findings from your examination.
Different views answer different questions. Dr. Brenda E. Howard selects the images that are appropriate for your symptoms, dental history and treatment needs.
What Can Dental X-Rays Help Evaluate?
Depending on the type of image, dental X-rays may help us assess:
- Decay between teeth or near existing restorations
- The condition of tooth roots and surrounding bone
- Changes in bone support associated with gum disease
- Teeth that have not erupted normally
- Areas that need further evaluation before treatment
An X-ray is one part of the diagnostic process. Dr. Brenda E. Howard considers your examination and history alongside the images before recommending care.
How Often Will You Need X-Rays?
There is no single imaging schedule for everyone. Your current oral health, risk of dental disease, symptoms and previous images help determine when new X-rays are useful. They are recommended when the expected diagnostic information is needed for your care.
If you recently had dental X-rays elsewhere, let our team know. Existing records may help us avoid unnecessary repeat images.
What to Expect During Imaging
For some views, a small sensor or plate is positioned inside your mouth while the image is taken. Our team will guide you through positioning and ask you to stay still briefly. Tell us if you have a sensitive gag reflex or discomfort so we can help you through the process.
Digital images can be displayed for review and discussion. We can use them to explain findings, compare relevant records and help you understand a proposed treatment.
A Thoughtful Approach to Radiation Exposure
Digital X-rays use ionizing radiation. Our approach is to select imaging based on clinical need and use appropriate techniques to obtain the information required for care. Tell us if you are pregnant or may be pregnant and ask any questions you have about the recommendation.
Some situations may call for cone beam 3D imaging when conventional views do not answer a specific clinical question. A three-dimensional scan is a separate examination and is not needed for every patient.
Experience Supported by Modern Technology
Dr. Brenda E. Howard has been in private practice since 1985 and has used digital X-rays for many years. Her ongoing education includes studies at the Pankey Institute and Stanley Institute. She combines clinical experience with modern dental technology to plan comprehensive adult care.
She will explain what the findings mean for you and discuss appropriate treatment or referral when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need X-rays if my teeth do not hurt?
Can I bring X-rays from another office?
Are digital X-rays the same as an intraoral scan?
Schedule a Dental Examination in Lanham, Maryland
Get a clear understanding of your oral health and care options. Call 301-552-2662 or contact Blissful Dental to schedule your visit.