Panoramic X-rays (also known as Panorex®) are wraparound photographs of the face and teeth. They offer a view that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye. X-rays in general, expose hidden structures, such as wisdom teeth, reveal preliminary signs of cavities, and also show fractures and bone loss.
Panoramic X-rays are extraoral and simple to perform. Usually, dental X-rays involve the sensor being placed inside the mouth, but panoramic sensor is hidden inside a mechanism that rotates around the outside of the head.
Panoramic X-rays are extremely versatile in dentistry, and are used to:
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Assess patients with an extreme gag reflex.
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Evaluate the progression of TMJ.
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Expose cysts and abnormalities.
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Expose impacted teeth.
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Expose jawbone fractures.
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Plan treatment (full and partial dentures, braces and implants).
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Reveal gum disease and cavities.
How are panoramic X-rays taken?
The panoramic X-ray provides the dentist with an ear-to-ear two-dimensional view of both the upper and lower jaw. The Panorex equipment consists of a rotating arm that holds the X-ray generator, and a moving film attachment that holds the pictures. The head is positioned between these two devices. The X-ray generator moves around the head taking pictures as orthogonally as possible. The positioning of the head and body is what determines how sharp, clear and useful the X-rays will be to the dentist. The pictures are magnified by as much as 30% to ensure that even the minutest detail will be noted.
Panoramic X-rays are an important diagnostic tool and are also valuable for planning future treatment. They are safer than other types of X-ray because less radiation enters the body.
If you have questions or concerns about panoramic X-rays, please ask your dentist.