Panoramic X-rays (also known as Panorex® or orthopantomograms) capture the entire mouth, including teeth, bones and soft tissues in one single image. Panoramic X-rays uncover wisdom teeth, reveal initial signs of cavities, and also show fractures and bone loss – X-rays capture details and features the human eye cannot find. It aims to provide a clear view of the sinus areas, nasal areas and mandibular nerve.  Panoramic X-rays are not used on a regular basis, they are only utilized for specific issues that a bitewing X-ray cannot capture. A panoramic X-ray becomes a desirable option when a patient is experiencing extreme pain, or a sinus complication causes dental problems.

Panoramic X-rays are used to evaluate or expose:

• Strategize treatment for implants, braces and dentures.
• Patients with a tremendous gag reflex.
• Reveal fractures in the jawbone.
• Gum disease and cavities.
• The development of TMJ.
• Cysts and irregularities.
• Wisdom teeth.
• Impacted teeth.

How does the procedure work?

The X-ray provides a two-dimensional view of both the upper and lower jaw. During a panoramic x-ray examination, the x-ray tube rotates in a semicircle around the patient’s head, starting at one side of the jaw and ending at the other side. A panoramic x-ray machine exudes a beam through the patient onto film or a sensor rotating opposite the X-ray tube. X-ray images are enlarged by 30% in order to capture the most intricate details.

Please ask your dentist if you have questions or concerns about panoramic X-rays.