Panoramic X-rays
Panoramic X-rays are wraparound radiographs of the face and teeth. They offer a view that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye. X-rays in general expose hidden structures, such as wisdom teeth, reveal preliminary signs of cavities, and also show fractures and bone loss.
Panoramic X-rays are extraoral and simple to perform. Usually, dental X-rays involve the film being placed inside the mouth, but panoramic film is hidden inside a mechanism that rotates around the outside of the head.
Panoramic X-rays are extremely versatile in dentistry, and are used to:
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View potential cysts and abnormalities
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View potential impacted teeth
Discover missing or extra teeth
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Plan treatment
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As a screening device for gum disease and bone support for the teeth
The panoramic X-ray provides the orthodontist with an ear-to-ear two-dimensional view of both the upper and lower jaw. Panoramic X-rays are an important diagnostic tool and are also valuable for planning future treatment.
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