A Broad View of Your Teeth, Jaws, and Nearby Structures
A panoramic dental X-ray is a two-dimensional image that shows the upper and lower teeth, jawbones, and nearby structures in one broad view. Arguello Dentistry uses panoramic imaging when it can support diagnosis or treatment planning at our offices in Margate and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida.
A visual dental exam reveals many important details. However, some teeth and bone structures cannot be seen by looking inside the mouth.
Panoramic imaging provides a wider view than a small dental X-ray. Therefore, it may help the dentist assess wisdom teeth, developing teeth, jawbone, missing teeth, and selected areas of concern.
At Arguello Dentistry , X-rays are selected according to each patient’s needs. They are not ordered only because a set amount of time has passed.
First, your medical and dental history is reviewed. Next, your mouth is examined. Earlier images may also be considered.
The dentist can then decide whether a panoramic image, close-up dental X-rays, a 3D CBCT scan , or another record will provide the most useful information.
A panoramic dental X-ray may help evaluate:
- Wisdom teeth
- Impacted or unerupted teeth
- Dental development
- Missing or extra teeth
- Upper and lower jawbone
- Selected tooth infections
- Large areas of bone change
- Planning for selected tooth extractions
- Planning for dentures or implants
- Orthodontic tooth development
- Selected jaw injuries or unusual findings
Still, a panoramic image does not provide every detail. Close-up images may also be needed to examine small cavities, roots, or individual teeth.
What Is a Panoramic Dental X-Ray?
A panoramic dental X-ray is also called a panoramic radiograph or panoramic image. The dental term panoramic radiography describes the process used to create it.
During the scan, the machine rotates around your head. Meanwhile, an X-ray source and image sensor move together.
The system creates one long image of the mouth and jaws. As a result, the dentist can review a broad area on one screen.
The image commonly includes:
- All erupted teeth
- Teeth that have not yet erupted
- Upper jawbone
- Lower jawbone
- Jaw joints in a general view
- Parts of the maxillary sinuses
- Parts of the nasal cavity
- Selected surrounding structures
According to MouthHealthy, an American Dental Association resource , dental X-rays can reveal disease or damage that may not be visible during an oral exam.
How Does a Panoramic X-Ray Work?
The panoramic machine sends a controlled X-ray beam through the selected area. A digital sensor records the image.
Unlike a small dental X-ray, the sensor is not placed inside your mouth. Instead, both parts of the unit move around the outside of your head.
Your head must remain still while the image is captured. Otherwise, movement may cause blur.
Once the scan is complete, the digital image is displayed on a monitor. The dentist can enlarge parts of it and compare the image with earlier records when available.
Panoramic X-Rays vs. Bitewing and Periapical X-Rays
Dental X-rays are designed for different purposes. Therefore, one type does not replace every other type.
A panoramic image shows a broad view. In contrast, bitewing and periapical X-rays provide closer views of selected teeth.
| Image Type | What It Shows | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Panoramic X-ray | A broad 2D view of the teeth, jaws, and nearby structures | Wisdom teeth, dental development, missing teeth, extractions, and broad jaw assessment |
| Bitewing X-ray | The crowns of upper and lower back teeth in one area | Cavities between teeth, bone height, and restoration margins |
| Periapical X-ray | One or more complete teeth from crown to root tip | Roots, infections, fractures, and local bone conditions |
| Full-mouth series | A group of close-up intraoral images | Detailed review of teeth, roots, bone, and extensive dental work |
Panoramic images are useful for broad assessment. However, they are less detailed for small cavities and fine root features.
The FDA’s dental imaging guidance notes that intraoral X-rays can be more accurate for some root, trauma, and pulp-related conditions.
Panoramic X-Ray vs. 3D CBCT Scan
A panoramic image and a CBCT scan both show broad dental structures. However, they create different types of records.
Panoramic imaging produces a two-dimensional view. Therefore, structures may overlap.
In contrast, cone-beam computed tomography creates a three-dimensional image. The dentist can view the selected area from several directions.
| Feature | Panoramic X-Ray | Dental CBCT |
|---|---|---|
| Image type | Two-dimensional | Three-dimensional |
| General purpose | Broad screening and treatment-planning view | Detailed evaluation of selected structures |
| Depth information | Limited | Shows depth and spatial relationships |
| Common uses | Wisdom teeth, development, missing teeth, and broad jaw review | Implant planning, complex surgery, and selected root or bone conditions |
| Radiation exposure | Generally lower than a large CBCT scan | Varies by scan size, equipment, and settings |
A CBCT scan is not automatically better. More detail is helpful only when it is needed for a clinical decision.
Learn more about 3D dental CBCT scans at Arguello Dentistry .
What Is a Panoramic Dental X-Ray Used For?
A panoramic image may be recommended when a broad view can answer a clinical question.
Common uses include:
- Evaluating wisdom teeth
- Checking dental growth and development
- Locating impacted teeth
- Identifying missing or extra teeth
- Planning selected extractions
- Reviewing tooth position before orthodontic care
- Assessing broad areas of the jawbone
- Planning some dentures or removable appliances
- Providing an initial view before implant planning
- Reviewing selected injuries or areas of swelling
Still, additional images may be required. The final choice depends on your symptoms, examination, and planned treatment.
Panoramic X-Rays for Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are also known as third molars. They usually develop behind the second molars.
A panoramic X-ray can show whether wisdom teeth are present. In addition, it may reveal their angle, stage of development, and general position.
The image may help assess whether a wisdom tooth is:
- Fully erupted
- Partly erupted
- Completely impacted
- Angled toward another tooth
- Positioned within the jawbone
- Associated with a broad area of concern
The ADA’s updated imaging recommendations identify panoramic radiography as an appropriate option when third molars need to be assessed for treatment planning.
However, a CBCT scan may be recommended if a more detailed three-dimensional view is needed.
Learn more about tooth extractions at Arguello Dentistry .
Panoramic X-Rays for Children and Teenagers
Children and teenagers continue to develop new teeth and jaw structures. Therefore, panoramic imaging may be used to review growth in selected cases.
A panoramic image may help the dentist assess:
- Permanent teeth that have not yet erupted
- Missing permanent teeth
- Extra teeth
- Delayed tooth eruption
- Impacted teeth
- Third-molar development
- Broad jaw growth or dental relationships
Yet, children should not receive panoramic images only because they reached a certain age. The clinical need should be considered first.
Current ADA guidance supports using panoramic imaging to monitor tooth eruption before orthodontic treatment when there is a clinical reason.
In addition, the FDA’s pediatric X-ray guidance explains that imaging settings should account for the child’s size and the area being examined.
Panoramic Imaging for Orthodontic Planning
Orthodontic treatment moves teeth and changes their positions. Before treatment, the dentist may need to review tooth development and root alignment.
A panoramic image can provide a broad view of the teeth within the jaws. It may also show unerupted teeth or areas that need more study.
Depending on the case, other orthodontic records may also be taken. These may include photographs, digital scans, bite records, or additional X-rays.
Panoramic imaging alone does not determine whether clear aligners or braces are appropriate. Instead, the image is reviewed with the bite and clinical examination.
Learn more about clear aligner treatment at Arguello Dentistry .
Panoramic X-Rays and Dental Implant Planning
A panoramic X-ray may provide an initial view of a missing-tooth area. For example, it can show the general height of the jaw and nearby teeth.
However, panoramic imaging does not accurately show three-dimensional bone width. It also cannot fully define the depth or position of nearby anatomy.
Therefore, a dental CBCT scan may be needed before an implant is placed.
Three-dimensional imaging can provide more detail about bone volume, implant position, sinuses, and nerve pathways.
Learn more about dental implant treatment at Arguello Dentistry .
Panoramic X-Rays Before Dentures
Patients without natural teeth may still need imaging in selected cases. The jawbone can contain retained roots, impacted teeth, or other findings.
A panoramic image may help assess areas that will support a denture. It can also provide a broad view before selected surgical or restorative treatment.
Nevertheless, panoramic imaging should not be used as automatic screening for every patient without teeth. A history and examination should guide the decision.
Depending on the findings, the dentist may recommend no further imaging, close-up X-rays, or a 3D scan.
What Conditions May Be Seen on a Panoramic X-Ray?
Panoramic images may reveal findings that are not visible during an oral examination.
Depending on their size and location, these may include:
- Impacted teeth
- Retained roots
- Missing teeth
- Extra teeth
- Large infections near tooth roots
- Broad areas of bone loss
- Jaw fractures
- Selected cyst-like changes
- Unusual jawbone findings
- Changes near the sinuses
However, an X-ray finding is not always a diagnosis. Further images, testing, follow-up, or specialist review may be required.
What Are the Limits of a Panoramic X-Ray?
Panoramic imaging provides a wide view. However, that wide view includes less fine detail than some close-up X-rays.
Important limits include:
- Small cavities may be difficult to see
- Structures may overlap
- Front teeth may appear blurred if positioning is incorrect
- Root shapes may not be shown in enough detail
- The image does not provide true three-dimensional measurements
- Metal items can create unwanted shadows
- Patient movement can blur the image
- Some infections or fractures may not be visible
- Soft tissues are not shown in detail
Consequently, the dentist may order bitewing, periapical, occlusal, or CBCT images when more detail is needed.
What Happens During a Panoramic Dental X-Ray?
The process is quick and painless. No sensor or film is placed deep inside the mouth.
1. Metal Items Are Removed
You may be asked to remove glasses, earrings, necklaces, facial jewelry, removable appliances, or other metal objects near your head.
These items can create shadows or bright areas on the image. Therefore, removing them may improve image quality.
2. You Are Positioned in the Machine
Most patients stand or sit during the scan. Your head is positioned with supports.
A small bite guide may be placed between the front teeth. It helps align your jaws within the image zone.
3. Your Head Is Kept Still
The machine moves around your head while the image is captured. You will not feel the X-rays.
Remaining still is important. Even small movements can reduce image clarity.
4. The Image Is Reviewed
The completed image appears on a computer screen. Afterward, the dentist reviews it with your examination findings.
How Should I Prepare for a Panoramic X-Ray?
Special preparation is usually not required. You can generally eat, drink, and take prescribed medicines as usual.
Before the scan:
- Tell the team if you are pregnant or could be pregnant
- Share recent dental injuries or symptoms
- Provide earlier X-rays when available
- Remove metal items when instructed
- Tell the team if you have trouble standing
- Mention neck, back, or balance concerns
- Follow the positioning instructions carefully
If another dentist recently took a panoramic image, request that it be sent to our office. A useful prior image may reduce the need for another exposure.
MouthHealthy also advises new patients to ask former dental offices to forward existing X-rays when possible.
How Long Does a Panoramic X-Ray Take?
The image itself is usually captured in less than a minute. However, positioning and preparation add a few minutes.
The machine may rotate around your head for roughly 10 to 20 seconds, depending on the unit.
Afterward, the image can be reviewed on a computer. No recovery time is needed.
Is a Panoramic Dental X-Ray Painful?
No. A panoramic X-ray does not cause pain.
Light pressure may be felt from the head supports or bite guide. However, no needle or anesthetic is needed.
Patients with jaw pain may find the bite position uncomfortable. Therefore, tell the dental team before the scan begins.
Positioning may be adjusted when possible. A different type of image may also be considered if the scan cannot be completed.
Does a Panoramic Dental X-Ray Use Radiation?
Yes. Panoramic imaging uses a controlled amount of ionizing radiation.
Dental imaging contributes a small part of a person’s total exposure from natural and medical sources. Even so, radiation should not be used without a clinical reason.
The amount of exposure depends on the machine, settings, patient size, and imaging method.
Current ADA guidance states that dental X-rays should be ordered only when they are expected to provide useful diagnostic information.
Read the American Dental Association’s dental radiography guidance for more information.
How Is Radiation Exposure Limited?
The first safety step is choosing the right image for the right reason. Therefore, your history and examination are reviewed before imaging is selected.
Additional steps may include:
- Reviewing earlier X-rays before ordering new ones
- Using digital imaging equipment
- Selecting settings based on patient size
- Positioning the patient carefully
- Avoiding unnecessary repeat images
- Maintaining and testing imaging equipment
- Limiting imaging to the information needed
The FDA advises using the correct imaging exam at the correct time with an exposure level that still produces a useful image.
More details are available through the FDA’s initiative to reduce unnecessary medical imaging exposure .
Can I Have a Panoramic X-Ray During Pregnancy?
Tell the dental team if you are pregnant or could be pregnant before dental imaging.
Necessary dental care should not be delayed without discussing the situation with your dentist. The reason for the image and the timing of treatment will be reviewed.
According to MouthHealthy’s pregnancy and dental-care guidance , dental X-rays can be taken during pregnancy when they are clinically needed.
The decision is made for the individual patient. Therefore, share any pregnancy concerns before the image is taken.
Will I Wear a Lead Apron or Thyroid Collar?
Current ADA and oral-radiology guidance no longer recommends routine abdominal or thyroid shielding for dental X-rays.
Modern dental imaging uses low exposure and focused beams. In addition, shielding can sometimes enter the image and cause a repeat scan.
However, local rules or office policies may differ. Your dental team will follow applicable requirements and equipment instructions.
You can read the ADA’s current patient information on dental X-ray safety and shielding .
When Will My Panoramic X-Ray Be Reviewed?
Digital panoramic images are usually available soon after the scan. Therefore, the dentist may review the image during the same visit.
Findings will be compared with your symptoms and clinical examination. Earlier images may also be reviewed for changes.
Some images require additional study. In those cases, another type of X-ray, CBCT scan, follow-up visit, or specialist review may be advised.
An image should not be interpreted without the rest of the clinical information.
Can a Panoramic X-Ray Show an Unexpected Finding?
Yes. A panoramic image covers a large area. As a result, it may show something unrelated to the original reason for the X-ray.
This is often called an incidental finding. Many such findings are harmless or normal variations.
However, an unexpected area may need comparison with earlier images. Additional imaging or a referral may also be recommended.
The patient will be informed when a finding needs follow-up.
How Often Should a Panoramic X-Ray Be Taken?
There is no single schedule that is correct for every patient.
The need for a new image depends on your age, oral health, symptoms, dental history, earlier findings, and planned treatment.
For example, a panoramic image may be useful during selected stages of dental development. It may also be ordered before certain surgical or orthodontic procedures.
In contrast, a patient without signs, symptoms, or treatment needs may not require another panoramic image.
The ADA’s 2026 recommendations confirm that dental X-rays should be used in moderation and only when they are clinically necessary.
Review the ADA’s updated dental X-ray patient-selection recommendations .
Does Dental Insurance Cover Panoramic X-Rays?
Many dental plans provide benefits for panoramic imaging when it is clinically needed. However, frequency limits and coverage rules vary.
Some plans may cover a panoramic image only once during a set number of years. Others may apply the image to a general X-ray allowance.
Insurance benefits do not determine whether an X-ray is clinically needed. Likewise, coverage cannot be guaranteed by the dental office.
Our team can provide an estimated fee and explain available insurance, payment, and financing options .
Panoramic Dental X-Rays in Margate, Florida
Arguello Dentistry provides panoramic dental imaging when it is clinically appropriate at our Margate dental office.
These images may support wisdom-tooth evaluation, dental development, extraction planning, denture care, and selected restorative treatment.
Arguello Dentistry100 FL-7, Suite 300
Margate, FL 33063
Phone: (954) 532-1274
Email: Info@ArguelloDentistry.com
Our Margate dental office is convenient to Margate, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, North Lauderdale, Tamarac, and nearby Broward County communities.
Panoramic Dental X-Rays in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida
Arguello Dentistry by the Sea provides digital panoramic imaging near Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach.
When needed, these images can help our dentists review the teeth, jawbone, wisdom teeth, and nearby structures.
Arguello Dentistry by the Sea236 Commercial Boulevard
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308
Phone: (954) 568-8928
Email: Info@ArgDentbytheSea.com
The office serves Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Sea Ranch Lakes, Oakland Park, and nearby coastal communities.
Why Choose Arguello Dentistry for Dental Imaging?
Dental imaging should answer a clear clinical question. Therefore, we do not rely on one standard X-ray schedule for every patient.
Our approach includes:
- Reviewing your symptoms and concerns first
- Considering your medical and dental history
- Reviewing earlier images when available
- Completing a clinical examination before ordering imaging
- Selecting the image type that fits the clinical need
- Explaining what the image can and cannot show
- Using digital images to improve patient understanding
- Recommending added imaging only when needed
- Providing care at two Broward County locations
Most importantly, the X-ray is not viewed alone. Your history, symptoms, examination, and treatment goals are considered together.
Explore the other tools used in our offices on the Arguello Dentistry dental technology page .
Schedule a Dental Evaluation
You do not need to know which type of dental X-ray you need before scheduling.
Tell us about your symptoms, concerns, or planned treatment. Then, the dentist can examine your mouth and review your existing records.
If imaging is needed, the most suitable type will be explained.
Schedule an evaluation at Arguello Dentistry in Margate or Arguello Dentistry by the Sea in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
Request a dental appointment online
Call our Margate office: (954) 532-1274
Call our Lauderdale-by-the-Sea office: (954) 568-8928
Frequently Asked Questions About Panoramic Dental X-Rays
What is a panoramic dental X-ray?
A panoramic dental X-ray is a two-dimensional image that shows the upper teeth, lower teeth, jawbones, and nearby structures in one broad view.
What is another name for a panoramic X-ray?
It may be called a panoramic radiograph, panoramic image, orthopantomogram, or OPG.
Why would a dentist order a panoramic X-ray?
The dentist may need a broad view of the teeth and jaws. Common reasons include wisdom teeth, impacted teeth, dental development, extractions, orthodontic planning, or selected jaw concerns.
Does a panoramic X-ray show every tooth?
It usually shows all erupted teeth and many teeth that remain beneath the gums or bone. However, image quality depends on positioning and anatomy.
Can a panoramic X-ray detect cavities?
It may show some large cavities. However, bitewing X-rays generally provide better detail for finding small cavities between teeth.
Can a panoramic X-ray show a tooth infection?
It may reveal larger bone changes linked to an infection. Still, periapical X-rays or a CBCT scan may be needed for a closer view.
Can a panoramic X-ray show wisdom teeth?
Yes. It can show whether wisdom teeth are present, erupted, partly erupted, impacted, or developing within the jaw.
Can a panoramic X-ray show impacted teeth?
Yes. Panoramic imaging is often used to locate teeth that have not erupted normally.
Can a panoramic X-ray show the jaw joints?
It provides a general view of the bony jaw joints. However, it does not show the joint disc or other soft tissues in detail.
Can a panoramic X-ray show the sinuses?
It may show part of the maxillary sinuses. However, another dental or medical image may be needed for a detailed sinus evaluation.
Is a panoramic X-ray the same as a CBCT scan?
No. A panoramic image is two-dimensional. In contrast, a CBCT scan creates a three-dimensional view.
Does a panoramic dental X-ray hurt?
No. The procedure is painless. You only need to remain still while the machine moves around your head.
How long does a panoramic X-ray take?
Image capture usually takes less than one minute. Preparation and positioning add a few minutes.
Does anything go inside my mouth?
A small positioning guide may be placed between the front teeth. However, no large sensor or film is placed inside the mouth.
Do I need to remove jewelry?
Yes, metal objects near the head may need to be removed. They can create unwanted shadows or block part of the image.
Can I eat before a panoramic X-ray?
Yes. You can usually eat, drink, and take medicine normally unless another procedure requires different preparation.
Does a panoramic X-ray use radiation?
Yes. It uses a controlled amount of ionizing radiation. Therefore, the image should be taken only when it can provide useful clinical information.
Are panoramic X-rays safe for children?
They may be used for children when clinically needed. Imaging settings and the reason for the examination should be based on the child’s size and dental development.
Can a pregnant patient receive a panoramic X-ray?
Necessary dental imaging can be completed during pregnancy. However, tell the dental team first so the reason and timing can be reviewed.
Will I need a lead apron?
Current ADA guidance no longer recommends routine lead aprons or thyroid collars for dental imaging. Still, local rules or office procedures may differ.
How often should I receive a panoramic X-ray?
There is no fixed schedule for every patient. The need depends on your age, oral health, symptoms, prior images, and planned treatment.
Can I get a copy of my panoramic X-ray?
Yes. Patients may request copies of their dental records. Contact the office for the records-release process.
Will dental insurance cover a panoramic X-ray?
Coverage varies by plan. Frequency limits may apply, and benefits cannot be guaranteed by the dental office.
Do you provide panoramic dental X-rays near Coral Springs?
Yes. Arguello Dentistry is located at 100 FL-7, Suite 300 in Margate. The office is convenient to Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, North Lauderdale, and Tamarac. Call (954) 532-1274 or request an appointment online .
Do you provide panoramic dental X-rays near Fort Lauderdale?
Yes. Arguello Dentistry by the Sea is located at 236 Commercial Boulevard in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. The office is near Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, and Sea Ranch Lakes. Call (954) 568-8928 or request an appointment online .
Panoramic Dental X-Ray Information Sources
General educational information on this page was developed with guidance from the following dental and government resources:
- American Dental Association: Dental X-Rays and Radiographs
- American Dental Association: 2026 Dental X-Ray Patient-Selection Recommendations
- MouthHealthy: Dental X-Rays
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Selection of Patients for Dental Radiographic Examinations
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Pediatric X-Ray Imaging
- MouthHealthy: Pregnancy and Dental X-Rays
- The Journal of the American Dental Association: The Value of Dental X-Rays
This page provides general education. It does not replace a dental examination, diagnosis, radiology review, or personalized treatment recommendation.