To provide you with the highest standard of dental care, it is essential for our dentist and team to accurately assess your oral health. One of the most advanced diagnostic tools we use is panoramic X-rays. Unlike traditional bitewing X-rays that capture a small section of your teeth, panoramic X-rays offer a full view of your entire mouth, including both the upper and lower jaws, teeth, temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and surrounding structures.
The Benefits of Panoramic X-Rays
Panoramic X-rays provide a wealth of information that aids in diagnosis and treatment planning. With a single scan, our dentist can:
- Evaluate wisdom teeth – Panoramic X-rays help determine whether wisdom teeth are impacted, developing incorrectly or require extraction.
- Assess orthodontic needs – By capturing the full dental arch, these images assist in diagnosing bite issues and planning orthodontic treatments.
- Detect oral cancer and cysts – Hidden abnormalities such as cysts, tumors and bone irregularities can be identified early.
- Examine the TMJ – For patients experiencing jaw pain or dysfunction, panoramic X-rays provide insight into joint alignment and potential disorders.
- Plan dental implants – These images ensure precise implant placement by revealing the bone structure and density.
- Diagnose periodontal disease – The extent of bone loss due to gum disease can be clearly seen in a panoramic view.
- Identify cavities and infections – Deep decay, abscesses and other dental conditions can be detected in areas not visible during a standard examination.
What to Expect During a Panoramic X-Ray
The process of taking a panoramic X-ray is quick, comfortable and noninvasive. You will be positioned in front of the machine and a rotating arm will move around your head while capturing a detailed, high-resolution image. The entire process takes only a few seconds and there is no discomfort involved. Once the image is ready, our dentist and team will review the results and discuss any findings with you.
Panoramic X-rays are an invaluable tool in modern dentistry, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of your oral health. If you have questions about panoramic X-rays in Glendale, Arizona, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Darren Chugg, we invite you to contact Paseo Family Dental and Dentures at 623-487-1122 today.