Exploring Dental Health With Panoramic X-rays
X-rays have been an important diagnostic tool that aids in evaluating and assessing your oral health through images of the different parts. These images are useful in detecting abnormalities to design an appropriate treatment plan.
The dentist near Buffalo Grove, IL, and their team specialize in a variety of dental X-rays, panoramic X-rays being one among them. Let us learn more about them!
What is a panoramic X-ray?
A panoramic X-ray, also popularly known as an OPG (orthopantomogram), is a type of dental imaging procedure that creates a single image of the entire mouth- the upper and the lower jaws, their temporomandibular joints, teeth, the nasal area, and the sinuses. The image provides a flat representation of the otherwise curved jaws, making it easier to analyze each part. The image of your whole mouth is captured on a single film, unlike traditional X-rays that can capture only a specific region.
Why use a panoramic X-ray?
Panoramic X-rays or an OPG help diagnose and monitor the following conditions:
- Gum disease
- Hidden tooth decay and cavities
- Oral abscesses and cysts
- Dental fractures
- Dislocated jaws
- Abnormal tooth development
- Impacted teeth
- Wisdom teeth development
- Dental implant planning
How is a panoramic X-ray performed?
The panoramic X-ray is performed by the same principles that are followed during a traditional X-ray.
- You will be taken to the radiology room and asked to remove any jewelry or metal accessories.
- You will be made to stand or sit still in front of the X-ray machine with your chin resting on a small chin rest.
- A bite block will be used to keep your mouth open.
- The X-ray machine arm will then rotate in a semicircle around your head, starting from one side of your jaw and ending at the other.
What are the benefits of a panoramic X-ray?
The significant advantages of an OPG or panoramic X-ray include:
- Broad coverage of facial bones and teeth, including the TMJ
- Involves low patient radiation dose
- It is highly convenient when compared to traditional X-rays
- Helps in patients with restricted mouth opening
- Short time required to produce the image
- It is a useful visual aid in patient education and case presentation
Final takeaway
Panoramic X-ray, or an OPG, is a vital dent diagnostic tool that has expedited the age-old slow dental diagnosis process by offering dentists instant access to images. This helps design appropriate treatment plans and execute them immediately, enabling the patient quick relief from oral pathologies.
