Panoramic dental x-ray utilizes only a small amount of ionizing radiation to show the whole mouth in one image, including the teeth, the upper and lower jaws, and the surrounding tissues and structures.
Use of Panoramic Dental X-ray
A panoramic x-ray is a vital diagnostic instrument often used by dentists and oral surgeons to plan the treatment for braces, dentures, implants, and extractions. A panoramic x-ray may identify various dental issues, including:
- Advanced periodontal diseases
- Jaw disorders (TMJ disorders)
- Sinusitis
- Cysts in jawbones
- Oral cancer or jaw tumors
- Impacted teeth
Benefits
- There is no radiation left in your body following an x-ray exam.
- A panoramic x-ray is non-invasive, quick, and easy to carry out.
- It is preferred over intraoral x-rays for irritable gag reflex patients.
- Panoramic x-rays are entirely safe for very young children, as the film doesn't have to be placed in the mouth.
Preparing for Panoramic X-Ray
A panoramic x-ray examination requires no special preparation. You will be asked to wear an apron as a precautionary measure to protect the rest of your body from radiation. Make sure to take off your jewelry and eyeglasses from the area imaged.
Procedure
The x-ray tube moves around the patient's head when a panoramic examination is conducted. It begins on one side of the jaw, ending on the opposite side. Instead of placing the film in the mouth cavity, a panoramic x-ray machine projects a beam of light through the mouth onto film or a detector that rotates opposite the tube.
The majority of x-ray images are stored as digital images. The dentist accesses these images to help diagnose and treat your dental issues. The digital format permits dentists to alter images' brightness, contrast, and darkness to better understand specific tissues and structures.
You will be placed in the middle of the unit during the procedure, where our staff will carefully position your head and secure it. A bite-blocker will then be put in your mouth to ensure the proper alignment of your teeth. This is essential to provide a clear image.
It is crucial to remain calm and relaxed while the arm rotates semi circles around the outside of your head and the images are captured. The duration can vary from 12 and 20 minutes.
Please reach out to our dental practice in Pleasanton, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist in Pleasanton CA, Dr. Dogra. Please call us at (925) 600-9006 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.