Digital X-rays

Blyholder Family Dentistry: Digital X-Rays in Wichita, KS

At Blyholder Family Dentistry, we provide accurate digital X-rays in Wichita, KS. Contact us today at 316-684-4921. Digital X-rays are among the essential dental diagnostic tools. At Blyholder Family Dentistry in Wichita, KS, we use digital X-rays to get an accurate picture of a patient’s dental health, which helps to suggest a treatment plan. Our founding dentist, Dr. Jaclyn Blyholder, uses this as one diagnostic tool to ensure clients receive the best possible dental care. Compared to traditional X-rays, digital dental X-rays are faster, safer, and more convenient. In addition, they use up to 90% less radiation and require no hazardous chemicals for image development. As a result, digital radiography is an indispensable part of dental treatment, from root canals to implant procedures.

How Digital X-Rays Work

Dr. Blyholder or an assistant places a tiny sensor in the patient’s mouth during a digital X-ray procedure. The sensor provides a precise and detailed image of the patient’s oral structures. The dental team can instantly view the image on a monitor, magnify it, and adjust contrast for improved visibility. The digital X-ray images are easy to store, back up, and reproduce as needed.

Preparing for Dental X-Rays

Usually, dental X-rays require no specific preparation apart from brushing one’s teeth. The procedure is quick and involves minimal discomfort for the patient. In most cases, a digital X-ray scan only takes a few seconds.

What Dental Conditions Can Digital X-Rays Diagnose?

Digital X-rays can help diagnose a wide variety of dental conditions, including:
  • Tooth decay
  • Developmental tooth abnormalities
  • Improper root positioning
  • Infections, cysts, and abscesses
  • Tooth or filling fractures
  • Bone loss
  • Oral cancer

When Will a Dentist Recommend X-Rays?

Dr. Blyholder may recommend X-rays as a part of a dental exam for many reasons. Here are just a few examples:
  • The patient complains of dental pain or discomfort
  • The dentist needs to see the progress of an existing condition
  • The dentist must see whether the patient’s condition is compatible with a suggested treatment
As a patient, depending on your diagnosis or condition, you may need intraoral X-rays, extraoral X-rays, or both. Intraoral X-rays, the more common type of dental X-rays, can help locate cavities, diagnose tooth development, and monitor general dental health. Extraoral X-rays focus on the skull and jaw. They can help diagnose issues like jaw abnormalities and temporomandibular disorders. Panoramic extraoral X-rays are also vital for planning advanced dental treatments such as implants.

How Often Should Patients Have X-Rays?

Healthy patients without apparent dental problems will usually have X-rays once a year. Patients suffering from dental issues like extensive decay or gum disease may often need X-rays. Children may need X-rays every six months if they have severe cavities or problems with the eruption of permanent teeth.

Blyholder Family Dentistry: Restorative, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry in Wichita, Kansas

Blyholder Family Dentistry is a long-standing dental practice under Dr. Jaclyn Blyholder, a member of ADA, the Kansas Dental Association, and the Wichita District Dental Society. Our qualified, patient-centered dental team has over 75 years of combined experience. We focus on providing top-quality general and cosmetic dentistry services to patients of all ages. For quick, accurate dental digital X-rays and treatments at Blyholder Family Dentistry in Wichita, KS, please call 316-684-4921 today.