In addition to taking small, individual diagnostic images of specific teeth or sections of teeth as needed, we also take a single digital x-ray to obtain a two-dimensional view of all the teeth, the upper and lower jawbones, the nasal sinuses, and the temporomandibular joints (the TMJ). This extra-oral image is known as a Panoramic X-ray. As a simple, comfortable, and fast diagnostic procedure, it produces digital images with minimal x-ray exposure to the patient. Because this picture is taken from outside the mouth, the only requirement for the patient is to hold still while resting the jaw on a platform in the center of the unit, while the x-ray tube rotates in a semicircle around the head. A Panoramic X-ray can be viewed on the computer by the dentist and patient as well as shared with others as needed. A highly valuable diagnostic tool, Panoramic X-rays are useful in checking for conditions such as periodontal disease, growths in the jaw, the dental development of the unerupted and erupted teeth, impacted teeth, TMJ disorders, and sinusitis.
