Panoramic X-rays, also known as Panorex®, provide a comprehensive, wraparound image of your child's face and teeth. They allow us to see structures that would otherwise be hidden from view. Like other dental X-rays, panoramic images can reveal the presence of wisdom teeth, early signs of cavities, as well as fractures and bone loss.

Panoramic X-rays are an extraoral procedure, meaning the imaging equipment remains outside the mouth, making the process simple and comfortable.Unlike traditional dental X-rays where the film is placed inside the mouth, panoramic film is contained within a device that rotates around the outside of your child's head.

Panoramic X-rays are often taken as a baseline around the time their permanent teeth start to come in. The Planmeca ProMax S3 Panoramic unit at Sky Pediatric Dentistry has the added benefit of being able to take cavity-detecting Bitewing X-rays from outside the mouth. Please contact Dr. Ashley and the team at Sky Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about this technology.

Panoramic X-rays are a valuable and versatile diagnostic tool in dentistry, used to:

Check for the presence of permanent teeth
The SKY Panoramic machine can be used to take cavity-checking Bitewing X-rays from OUTSIDE the mouth
Check for impacted teeth, cysts, and other unusual conditions
Evaluate jawbone fractures

How are Panoramic X-rays Performed?

A panoramic X-ray provides the dentist with a broad, ear-to-ear, two-dimensional view of both the upper and lower jaws.

The Planmeca ProMax S3 equipment consists of a robotic arm that holds the X-ray source and a moving component that holds the image receptor. Your child's head is carefully positioned between these two parts. The X-ray source moves in a semi-circular path around their head, capturing images from various angles to create a comprehensive view. Precise positioning of the head and body is essential for obtaining sharp, clear, and diagnostically useful X-rays. The resulting images are magnified by up to 30% to ensure that even the smallest details are visible.

Panoramic X-rays are an important diagnostic tool and are also beneficial in planning future dental care.

If you have any questions or concerns about panoramic X-rays, please feel free to contact our practice.