Dental panoramic X-ray in Rabat

What is a panoramic X-ray?

A panoramic X-ray, also known as an orthopantomogram (OPG), is a radiograph that shows both jaws in a single image: all the teeth, their roots, the surrounding bone, the temporomandibular joints and part of the maxillary sinuses.

During the examination, the X-ray tube and the sensor rotate around your head for a few seconds. The machine then reconstructs an "unrolled" view of the jaw, as if the dental arch had been laid flat on a sheet of paper. With digital radiography, the image appears on screen almost immediately, with no film to develop.

What is it used for?

It is the first-line examination for a general assessment. In particular, it helps to:

• take stock at a first consultation or after a long time without a check-up;
• locate wisdom teeth, their position and their relationship with the nerve of the lower jaw;
• detect infections at the tips of roots, cysts or impacted teeth;
• give a first estimate of the bone height available when planning a dental implant;
• follow the arrival of permanent teeth in children;
• assess the general condition of the gums and supporting bone.

A panoramic image does not always replace small targeted X-rays (periapical or bitewing), which are more precise for a particular tooth, for example when following up a root canal treatment. Nor does it replace 3D imaging when that is needed: in that case, the examination is prescribed for you.

What the image can show beyond the teeth

Because it covers a wide area, a panoramic X-ray sometimes reveals things nobody was looking for: a root left in the bone after an old extraction, an extra tooth, thickening of the lining of a sinus, asymmetry of the joints or an unusual appearance in the bone. Most of these findings are harmless and simply need monitoring.

When something on the image deserves a closer look, the dentist explains it to you clearly and, if necessary, refers you for a further examination or to the relevant specialist (ENT doctor, radiologist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon). The aim is not to worry you, but to make sure nothing important is missed.

This is also why a panoramic X-ray is often taken at a first appointment: it gives the dentist a complete map of your mouth before a treatment plan is proposed.

How the examination works

The examination is quick and painless. You will be asked to remove any metal objects from your head and neck (earrings, glasses, hairpins, removable appliance), as they cast shadows on the image. A protective apron may be offered, depending on the protocol.

You stand or sit in the machine, with your chin on a rest and your teeth gently biting on a small mouthpiece. Then you simply stay completely still during the rotation, with your tongue pressed against the roof of your mouth. The dentist checks the quality of the image straight away and repeats the shot if it is blurred.

Digital radiography and exposure

Digital radiography reduces exposure compared with old film X-rays, while producing an image that can be enlarged and adjusted for contrast on screen. Every X-ray nevertheless involves exposure to radiation, which is why an image is only taken when it provides useful information for your diagnosis or treatment.

Always mention a pregnancy, even a possible one. The examination is then postponed where possible, or limited to what is strictly necessary depending on the urgency.

Understanding your images

The image is discussed with you on screen: where a cavity is, what an infected root looks like, why a wisdom tooth is causing trouble. It is kept in your file and serves as a reference for later check-ups. If you have recent X-rays taken elsewhere, please bring them: they may avoid the need for a new examination.

For an X-ray assessment at the Agdal practice in Rabat, book an appointment.