An excellent dental office invests in the latest technology to transform its patient care. A panoramic x-ray is one such technology that every dental office should have. This X-ray is crucial for oral health preservation and could be a potential life-saver.
This x-ray is two-dimensional and captures your mouth in a single image. The x-ray takes a view of all your teeth, several bones of your head and neck, and other critical features. A bitewing dental x-ray only displays a close-up of your teeth, but this x-ray gives your dentist a better view of your head and neck.
Why You Need a Panoramic X-Ray
There are several critical reasons why you need this x-ray:
1. Improved Dental Care
This x-ray allows the dentist to view how your head, neck, and jaw work together. It’s easier to identify if you have any growths, tumors, cysts, cancer, and other jaw abnormalities.
2. Early Detection
The x-ray gives the dentist a view of your entire mouth. It becomes easier to spot any dental issues early. The option allows you to get minimally invasive and early treatment, which is less expensive than when the matter progresses.
3. Life Prolonging
Most often, oral cancer is fatal since it’s diagnosed late. A panoramic x-ray allows a dentist to catch the onset of oral cancer in its early stages when it’s easier to treat.
4. Track Changes
An x-ray every three to five years allows the dentist to see and track any changes in your mouth. For example, the dentist can tell from the x-ray if your teeth have shifted or if you experience any bone abnormalities.
5. Track Growth
This x-ray is crucial for assessing orthodontic care needs in children and teenagers. It allows the dentist to check how well the wisdom teeth are coming along and any abnormalities.
What Does This X-Ray Procedure Entail?
The x-ray machine has one side with an x-ray tube and another with a detector or film. The technician fixes these to a revolving arm that swivels 180 degrees around your head. Your head is positioned on a chin rest and supported on the front and sides. You can take the X-ray while standing, as it takes about ten to twenty seconds. You can sit if you so wish.
At Westmoreland Dental Group, we can take your panoramic x-ray. Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment with us today!