Digital Panoramic X-rays
Digital Panoramic X-rays are wraparound photographs of the face and teeth. They offer a view that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye. The Panoramic will expose hidden structures, such as wisdom teeth, reveal preliminary signs of cavities, and also show fractures and bone loss.
Unlike bitewing X-rays that are usually taken annually, Panoramics are taken every 3-5 years. A panoramic X-ray is not conducted to give a detailed view of each tooth, but rather to provide a better view of the sinus areas, nasal areas and mandibular nerve. Panoramic X-rays are preferable to bitewing X-rays when a patient is in extreme pain, and when a sinus problem is suspected to have caused dental problems.
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 digital 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 most common uses for panoramic X-rays are to reveal the positioning of wisdom teeth and to check whether dental implants will affect the mandibular nerve (the nerve extending toward the lower lip).
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.
If you have questions or concerns about panoramic X-rays, please contact our practice.
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