Panoramic Imaging

by Dr. Lee

Panoramic X-rays give a broad overview of the entire mouth. This X-ray provides information about the teeth, upper and lower jawbone, and sinuses.

Unlike other X-rays where the film is placed inside the patient’s mouth, the panoramic film is contained in a machine that moves around the patient's head, most often taken when the wisdom teeth are being evaluated. The X-ray will reveal deep cavities and gum disease, but it is not as precise as bitewing or periapical X-rays.

The panoramic X-ray has many other applications, including evaluating patients with TMJ or jaw joint problems; those who require full or partial removable dentures, dental implants, or braces; those who are at risk or suspected of having oral cancer or other tumors of the jaw, have impacted teeth or have had any recent trauma to the face or teeth; and for those with gag reflexes who cannot tolerate other types of films.