Panoramic x-rays provide exactly what the definition of the word “panoramic” suggests: A wide, sweeping view of what’s happening in your mouth. This wraparound view gives more information about cavities, wisdom teeth, and jaw health than regular x-rays. There’s no better way to see fractures, bone loss, or bite concerns than panoramic x-rays, which may also be called orthopantomograms or referred to by the brand name Panorex.
With today’s panoramic x-rays from San Diego Dentist Association members, there’s no film to put in your mouth. Either the x-rays are done digitally or the film is built into the machine – which moves around your head to take the x-ray and doesn’t go inside your mouth at all. Your dentist can see a broad overview of what’s happening with your mouth, jaw and face and may still perform other x-rays to get a close look at any teeth of concern.
There is a range of reasons why your dentist might choose to take a panoramic x-ray. Some do them routinely. Others do them only for specific purposes, including:
- Looking for gum disease and cavities that might otherwise be missed
- Understanding if TMD or other jaw problems are progressing
- Diagnosing an overactive gag reflex
- Looking for cysts
- Seeing fractures in jawbones or teeth
- Planning for braces, dentures, or implants
- And more.
The unique circular view of a panoramic x-ray is taken using a rotating arm with an x-ray machine on it that moves around your head while you are either seated or standing, depending on the machine. The rotating arm moves slowly around your head while you remain still and face forward to take the panoramic x-ray. The image will be blurred and not usable by the dentist if you move your head, so it’s important that you stay as still as possible.
Once the panoramic x-ray has been generated, your dentist will magnify the image and examine it closely for either the specific problems they were concerned about or generally to see if any problems are detected. This vital diagnostic tool can help a dentist understand what’s happening and how they can treat it. When used in conjunction with regular x-rays a dentist can get a much clearer picture of what’s happening with your teeth and mouth than with other x-rays alone.
For more information about panoramic x-rays or for diagnosis of your oral health concerns, reach out to an SDDA dentist now. It’s the right time to make an appointment and get your problems resolved – before they get worse.