What is a panoramic radiograph?
A panoramic radiograph, also known as a panoramic x-ray, is one of the most popular X-ray examinations in dentistry. It is painless, quick and easy to take. A panoramic radiograph covers the teeth, upper and lower jaw, temporomandibular joint and sinuses. It provides the correct perspective for assessing of the health of all the teeth and periodontal tissues. Such an examination is necessary, for example, before braces are fitted and also for an accurate assessment of the teeth during a follow-up visit to the dentist.
Panoramic radiography – what does this examination look like?
The examination involves taking X-rays of the teeth, upper and lower jaws, temporomandibular joints and maxillary sinuses. A special lead apron is worn to protect the patient from the radiation. During the exposure, the patient must not wear any metal objects around the face or neck, such as earrings, pins or other jewellery, or glasses or hearing aids. The patient stands still next to the X-ray column and bites on a special bite stick. Avoiding movement is essential for a sharp image. Accurate positioning of the patient is made possible by the three laser beams emitted by the machine. The examination takes only a short time. The arm of the X-ray machine moves around the patient’s head for about 14 seconds, and the digital image is immediately displayed on the monitor.
Panoramic radiography – indications for examination
Indications for a panoramic radiograph include:
- various jaw injuries;
- advanced tooth decay;
- periodontal disease;
- submandibular and sublingual salivary gland stones (calculi);
- removal of erupted or retained teeth such as wisdom teeth (third molars);
- dental implant surgery – the examination is used to assess the amount of bone and space available for the implant;
- planned orthodontic treatment.
A panoramic radiograph is also required before certain surgical procedures outside the mouth, such as cataract surgery, to rule out the presence of an inflammatory focus.
Panoramic radiography – contraindications
X-rays are not completely harmless to the human body, so there are certain contraindications to examinations that involve exposure. Panoramic radiography is not performed on pregnant women or infants, as even a small dose of radiation can be harmful to the foetus or child. Dental radiography cannot be performed on unconscious patients or those who are unable to maintain an upright position of the cervical spine, which is essential during the examination. The radiographer may refuse to take a panoramic radiograph if the patient is uncooperative, such as infants or people with communication difficulties.
When is a panoramic radiograph taken?
A panoramic radiograph allows the dentist to detect various pathological changes such as caries, cysts, inflammation, malocclusion and tumours. It can be used in both adults and children to monitor dental development. Like other X-rays, panoramic radiography uses a low dose of radiation. This radiation penetrates soft tissue but is absorbed by denser structures such as bone and metal, making it effective in diagnostic imaging.
How to prepare for a panoramic radiograph?
A panoramic radiograph does not require any special preparation. The patient does not need to fast or have any additional tests done, such as blood tests. Before the actual examination, the radiographer will ask the patient to remove any metal objects such as jewellery, watches, glasses or hair clips. This is important because the presence of metal in the face and neck area can interfere with the image and affect the quality of the results obtained. Removing these items will ensure the clarity and accuracy of the X-ray image.
What a panoramic radiograph shows
The panoramic radiograph shows:
- all teeth, both erupted and retained (such as wisdom teeth). This allows the teeth to be assessed for decay, cavities, damage or the presence of retained teeth that may require surgical or orthodontic treatment.
- upper and lower jaw – these can be examined for fractures, cysts, tumours or other pathologies, such as bone disease. The examination also helps to determine the degree of bone loss, which is particularly important when planning implant procedures.
- temporomandibular joints – a panoramic radiograph allows the condition of these joints to be assessed, which is important in the diagnosis of degenerative changes, dysfunction, inflammation or asymmetries that may cause pain or limited mandibular mobility.
- periodontium – the radiograph shows the condition of the tissues surrounding the teeth, allowing early diagnosis of periodontal disease such as periodontitis. This is important when planning periodontal treatment.
- maxillary sinuses – their condition can be assessed, and any inflammatory changes, cysts or other pathology can be detected, which is important not only for oral health, but also for diagnosing ENT conditions.
A panoramic radiograph provides a complete picture of the condition of the teeth, bones and surrounding structures and is essential for dental and orthodontic diagnosis and planning of surgical procedures.
*IMPORTANT! The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Each case should be evaluated individually by a doctor. Consult with your doctor before making any health decisions.