Panoramic What’s that?

Dr. Matt here, Panoramic imaging, A “Pano” is a very important diagnostic tool. The x-ray called a Panoramic is a two dimensional capture of the entire mouth in a single exposure, including the teeth, upper and lower jaws, and surrounding tissues. Pano’s allow us to evaluate for the presence of cysts, tumors, cancer, trauma, third molars, large lesions, and generalized disease. It can be used as an alternative to intraoral x-rays and to assess surgical procedures during surgery. In addition we can see impacted teeth, temporomandibular joint disorders, sinus problems, carotid artery blockage, and bone differences. It is highly recommended to have a Pano every five years.

X-ray imaging (radiograph) exposes you and a Phosphor Plate to ionizing radiation.  The exposure to you is very small however it is cumulative over your life time. The Plate significantly amplifies the low dose exposure into a big useful picture image. Background radiation in nature is 6.2 mSv (microsievert) per year.  A Pano is .01 mSv.

It is easy to do.  You stand or sit in an enclosure and bite on a disposable plastic stick.  You swallow put your tongue into the roof of your mouth, close your eyes, hold very still and wait approximately 20 seconds. The image is immediately visible.

Next time you are in to FisherJones Family Dentistry ask about your Panoramic.  If you don’t have one, get one. It is always good to keep a “Good Image”.  Thank you.

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