A broad view of the mouth and jaws
A panoramic dental image is created as the imaging unit moves around the head. It produces a broad two-dimensional view that can include the upper and lower teeth, jawbones, jaw joints, and portions of nearby structures.
During the image, the patient is positioned with the head supported while the unit moves around them. Following the team’s positioning instructions and remaining still help produce an image that can be reviewed promptly.
When panoramic imaging may help
Depending on the clinical question, a panoramic image may support evaluation of developing or impacted teeth, overall dentition, jaw relationships, selected pathology, or planning for orthodontic, surgical, and restorative care.
Different images answer different questions
Panoramic imaging does not provide the same detail or perspective as every other dental image. It may be used alongside focused digital X-rays or other records when indicated. The clinician selects imaging according to the patient’s history, findings, and treatment needs.
CBCT scans: a three-dimensional view
A CBCT scan (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) is a specialized 3D dental X-ray. The scanner rotates around your head, collecting images that are combined into a detailed three-dimensional view of your teeth, jawbone, and nerve canals. It can also show some surrounding soft tissues, although soft-tissue detail is limited. Image capture typically takes 20 to 40 seconds for a full-mouth scan; a scan of a smaller area may take less than 10 seconds.
While a panoramic X-ray provides a broad two-dimensional overview, CBCT lets the dentist examine structures from multiple angles and assess their spatial relationships. This additional detail may help with dental implant planning, evaluating impacted teeth, and assessing the jaw and nearby nerve canals. Your dentist may recommend a CBCT scan when conventional dental X-rays do not provide enough information for your evaluation or treatment plan.