It’s breathtaking how dental health technology has improved over the years. A few years back, dentists and oral surgeons relied on the most basic and outdated medical equipment to diagnose cavities and other problems in the patients’ teeth. Today, we have panoramic x-ray machines that can take a series of images of your entire mouth, allowing us to view all aspects of your teeth at once. Further, it enables us to see any potential issues before they become serious enough for you to seek treatment. It also gives us an excellent idea of what our next steps should be when treating your teeth. The benefits and capabilities of this world-class machine are inexhaustible, really!
What is a Panoramic X-ray?
A panoramic x-ray is a 2D x-ray that captures a patient’s entire mouth from above, below, or both in just one image. Thus, it allows you to get a full view of your teeth, gums, jaw, sinuses, palate, tongue, and more. It’s like having a picture of your entire body taken in a single shot. We use these images as a guide to help us determine if there’s anything wrong with your teeth, gums, or bite.
Do I Need a Panoramic X-ray?
Not all dental issues require a full panoramic x-ray. For instance, if your dentist needs only to focus on a few teeth, a smaller bitewing x-ray would suffice. With that said, here are a few circumstances when a panoramic x-ray is necessary:
- If you’re experiencing pain in your jaws, face, or neck area. This could indicate a problem with your TMJ. In this case, a panoramic x-ray will allow us to evaluate the condition of your temporomandibular joints, which are located in your upper and lower jaw.
- If you have symptoms such as facial swelling, toothache, gum disease, or bleeding gums. These conditions may be caused by infection, injury, or a foreign object lodged in your mouth. In this situation, a panoramic radiograph will give us a better idea of what’s going on inside your mouth.
- If you’ve had previous surgery or trauma to your mouth. Sometimes after a procedure, you might experience some minor discomfort or soreness. If this persists, panoramic imaging will show us where the issue lies to treat it instantly.
- If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Braces are great for straightening crooked teeth, but they can cause a lot of discomfort during the process. Panoramic x-rays will provide us with a clear picture of your smile and allow us to make sure that everything is progressing smoothly.
- If you’re concerned about missing teeth. Missing teeth can lead to bone loss around the roots of the teeth, causing them to shift position. Panoramic imaging will let us know if this is happening.
Westmoreland Dental Group is Here to Help!
At Westmoreland Dental Group, we value and prioritize every patient’s dental health. That’s why we employ the best-in-class technologies like panoramic x-rays to ensure that you receive the best care possible. Our team consists of highly trained, friendly, and reliable professionals committed to restoring your smile through exceptional service. To learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal oral health, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!