Panoramic X-rays

Panoramic X-rays or panorex are used to develop a wraparound photograph of the facial structure. They provide a detailed view of the nasal area, upper and lower jaws, mandibular nerve, and the sinus areas in a single image.

Panoramic X-rays are an integral part of our comprehensive dental examination. Without panoramic X-rays, your dentist can miss out on critical information regarding tumors, cysts, and fractures. Panorex is an extraoral examination and cuts out radiation by 40%.

What are panoramic X-rays used for?

Taking a panoramic X-ray every 3-5 years helps your dentist in determining the changes that occur in your mouth over the period of time. Panoramic X-rays are used to:

• Detect sinusitis.
• Examine patients suffering from gag reflux.
• Detect oral cancer at an early stage. 
• Evaluate the progression of jaw disorders like TMJ syndrome.
• Detect abnormal developments in the oral cavity like cysts, abscesses, jaw tumors, and disturbance in tooth eruption.
• Expose impacted canines and wisdom teeth.
• Reveal advanced periodontal disease, gum recession and bone loss in the oral cavity.
• Determine the correct development of permanent teeth and the presence of extra or missing teeth.
• Design a treatment plan for dentures, braces, implants, and tooth extraction.
• Design a plan for cosmetic enhancements.

How are panoramic X-rays taken?

The equipment used to take panoramic X-rays consists of a rotating arm and a moving film attachment. The rotating arm holds the X-ray generator, and the moving film attachment holds the images. Your head is placed between these two devices, and you are asked to bite on a special tool, in order to position your head correctly. The correct positioning of the head is very important because it determines the clarity and sharpness of the panoramic X-ray images. The rotating arm moves in a semi-circle around your head and takes pictures. 

The panoramic X-ray images developed are enlarged by 30% to ensure the coverage of every minute detail, and are immediately available on a digital screen.

We, at Bliss Dentistry of Campbell, California, cater to all your needs pertaining to dental services and routine exams. Our Campbell dentists with their entire team persevere to provide you with exceptional treatment that enhances and maintains the beauty of your smile. If you have any further question, queries or dental emergencies and are looking for an experienced dentist in the South Bay Area, feel free to contact us at (408) 963-6678 to schedule an appointment.