Panoramic X-Rays (Panorex®)

Panoramic X-rays, also called Panorex® or orthopantomograms, are wraparound images of the face and teeth that reveal structures invisible to the naked eye. They are especially useful for detecting hidden dental issues, including impacted wisdom teeth, preliminary cavities, fractures, and bone loss.

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How Panoramic X-Rays Work

Unlike traditional dental X-rays, which require film inside the mouth, panoramic X-rays are extraoral and captured with a mechanism that rotates around the outside of the head. This allows for a full ear-to-ear view of the upper and lower jaws. Panoramic X-rays are typically taken as needed rather than routinely, providing a broad overview rather than detailed imaging of individual teeth. They are particularly helpful when sinus problems are suspected or when a patient has an extreme gag reflex.

Uses of Panoramic X-Rays

  • Assessing patients with a strong gag reflex
  • Evaluating temporomandibular joint (TMJ) progression
  • Detecting cysts and abnormalities
  • Identifying impacted teeth
  • Examining jawbone fractures
  • Planning treatments such as full or partial dentures, braces, and implants
  • Revealing signs of gum disease and cavities

How Panoramic X-Rays Are Taken

The patient’s head is positioned between a rotating X-ray generator and a moving film attachment. As the generator moves around the head, it captures a two-dimensional image of the upper and lower jaws. Proper positioning is critical to ensure clear, sharp images. The resulting images can be magnified up to 30% to reveal even the smallest details.

Panoramic X-rays are an important diagnostic tool that also helps dentists plan future treatments safely, exposing the patient to less radiation than other X-ray methods.

If you have questions or concerns about panoramic X-rays, please contact our practice.