Full Jaw X-Ray for Accurate Diagnosis, From £22

What Is a Panoramic X-Ray?

A panoramic X-ray (orthopantomogram or OPG) is a single, wide-angle image that captures your entire mouth in one shot. Unlike small intraoral X-rays that show just a few teeth, a panoramic X-ray shows all your teeth, both jawbones, the temporomandibular joints (jaw joints), the sinuses, and surrounding bone structures.

The X-ray is taken using a machine that rotates around your head while you stand still. It takes about 15 to 20 seconds and is completely comfortable, you will not feel a thing. The digital image appears on screen immediately, allowing your dentist to assess your dental health on the spot.

Panoramic X-rays are used to:

• Assess bone density and volume for implant planning
• Identify impacted teeth, cysts, or infections
• Evaluate the roots and surrounding bone of all teeth
• Plan extractions, especially for wisdom teeth
• Check the sinuses before upper jaw implant procedures
• Detect jaw joint problems or bone abnormalities

For more detailed 3D imaging (needed for precise implant planning), a CBCT scan may also be recommended. Your dentist determines which imaging is appropriate for your treatment.

Am I a Good Candidate?

A panoramic X-ray is suitable for virtually any dental patient. It is typically recommended if you:

• Are having a dental consultation and need a comprehensive overview
• Need implant treatment and your dentist needs to assess bone availability
• Have impacted or unerupted teeth that need evaluation
• Are experiencing jaw pain or joint problems that need investigation
• Have not had dental X-rays recently and a baseline assessment is needed

The only consideration is pregnancy. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be, inform your dentist before any X-rays. In most cases, dental X-rays can be postponed until after birth, though the radiation dose from a digital panoramic X-ray is very low.

What Happens During Your X-Ray?

The Procedure (2-3 Minutes)

You stand at the X-ray machine and place your chin on a small rest. A bite piece helps position your jaw correctly. The machine rotates slowly around your head, taking the image in about 15 to 20 seconds. You need to stay still during the rotation.

The process is completely comfortable. There is no sensation during the X-ray. No anaesthesia or preparation is needed.

Immediately After

The digital image appears on screen within seconds. Your dentist reviews the X-ray with you, pointing out any findings and explaining what they mean for your treatment plan.

The image is saved digitally and can be shared with you or with other dentists electronically.

Recovery and Aftercare

There is no recovery needed. A panoramic X-ray is completely non-invasive.

The radiation dose from a digital panoramic X-ray is very low, approximately 5 to 20 microsieverts, which is equivalent to a few hours of natural background radiation. Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film-based X-rays.

Your X-ray image is stored in the clinic's system and can be accessed for future reference or shared with other dental professionals if needed.

Risks and Considerations

A panoramic X-ray is extremely safe with virtually no risks.

Radiation exposure: The radiation dose is very low (5 to 20 microsieverts), equivalent to a few hours of natural background radiation or a short flight. Digital technology further reduces the dose compared to traditional film X-rays.

Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or suspect you may be, inform your dentist. While the radiation dose is very low, dental X-rays are typically postponed during pregnancy unless clinically necessary.

Image limitations: A panoramic X-ray provides a 2D overview. For detailed 3D information (such as precise bone measurements for implant planning), a CBCT scan may also be recommended.