Panoramic X-ray

A panoramic X-ray captures the entire mouth in a single image. The machine rotates around your head while you stand or sit still. Radiology sources describe it as using a very small dose of ionizing radiation.

Dentists use panoramic images to plan treatment for dental implants, check for impacted wisdom teeth, and look for jaw problems. The image is flat, so it shows a curved structure in two dimensions. It is not suited to finding cavities unless decay is very advanced and deep. A bitewing X-ray is used for that.

If your dentist needs a three-dimensional view, CBCT may be discussed. See also digital X-ray.