At Patuxent River Dental Care, our team uses advanced panoramic X-rays in Laurel, Maryland, to provide you a comfortable experience as we scan your smile and prepare your diagnosis. If you would like to learn more about panoramic X-rays, please feel free to contact us today at 301-498-6511 and schedule an exam with our dentists, Dr. Fatima Syeda or Dr. Brown.
Panoramic X-Rays: A Comprehensive View of Your Oral Health
To provide you with the highest level of care, our dentists and team rely on advanced imaging technology to assess your oral health accurately. One of the most valuable diagnostic tools available is the panoramic X-ray. Unlike traditional bitewing X-rays, which capture only a few teeth at a time, panoramic X-rays provide a full view of the upper and lower dental arches, jawbones and surrounding facial structures. This wide-ranging perspective allows for a more thorough evaluation of your dental and overall oral health.
Why Are Panoramic X-Rays Important?
Panoramic X-rays play a critical role in preventive, restorative and surgical dentistry. They allow our dentists to:
- Assess wisdom teeth and impacted teeth – Panoramic X-rays can reveal teeth that are trapped beneath the gumline or growing in at an angle, which may require extraction.
- Evaluate jaw joint health – If you experience jaw pain, clicking or discomfort, panoramic X-rays can help diagnose temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Detect oral cancer and cysts – These X-rays can identify abnormal growths, cysts or tumors in the jaw that may require further evaluation.
- Plan for dental implants – Before placing implants, our dentists and team need a clear view of the jawbone to ensure there is enough support for a successful procedure.
- Identify bone loss and gum disease – Panoramic imaging helps assess the progression of periodontal disease and its impact on the supporting structures of the teeth.
- Diagnose dental trauma – If you have experienced an injury to your face or mouth, panoramic X-rays can help assess fractures or damage to the jawbone.
What to Expect During a Panoramic X-Ray
The panoramic X-ray process is quick, comfortable and non-invasive. During the scan, you will stand or sit still while the machine rotates around your head. The entire process takes only a few seconds, and there is no need for intraoral film or uncomfortable bitewings. Once captured, the digital images are available almost instantly, allowing your dentist to review and discuss the findings with you right away.
Schedule Your Panoramic X-Ray Today
Panoramic X-rays provide an invaluable, in-depth look at your oral health, helping our dentists detect and address issues before they become more serious. If you need a comprehensive evaluation or are due for your next dental visit, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
