Your dentist referred you for a panoramic X-ray an image that shows your entire jaw in one picture. It is different from the small X-rays you might be used to. Here is what it shows and why it is used.

A panoramic X-ray is sometimes called an orthopantomogram, or OPG for short. Unlike the small individual X-rays taken during a routine check-up, a panoramic image captures your whole mouth in a single frame.

The X-ray machine rotates in a semi-circle around your head. You stand still with your chin on a rest and your teeth in a small bite guide. The whole process takes about 20 seconds.

The resulting image shows your upper and lower jaws, all your teeth, the nasal area and the sinuses above your mouth. It also shows the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) where your jaw connects to your skull.

A panoramic image is particularly useful for detecting problems that affect multiple teeth or the jawbone as a whole. Your dentist can see all your teeth in one view, including any that have not come through (impacted teeth).

It is excellent for spotting jawbone abnormalities, cysts, tumours and infections. Your dentist can also see the position and condition of wisdom teeth even those that have not caused any symptoms yet.

Panoramic X-rays are commonly used before orthodontic treatment, dental implant planning, and extractions especially for wisdom teeth.

Traditional bitewing X-rays show detailed images of individual teeth and small sections of your mouth. They are ideal for detecting decay between teeth and small changes in bone density.

A panoramic X-ray shows less fine detail but gives your dentist a much broader view. Think of it as the difference between a street map and a map of an entire county you lose the street names but gain the bigger picture.

Yes. The radiation dose from a panoramic X-ray is low. It is slightly higher than a single bitewing X-ray but still well within safe limits. Your dentist will only recommend one when there is a clinical reason to do so.