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A panoramic or wide-view x-ray of the upper and lower jaw and teeth. Panoramic radiography (also called pantomography) is a body section imaging technique that results in a wide, curved image layer depicting the maxillary and mandibular dental arches and their supporting structures. This is achieved by using a single rotation of the x-ray source and image receptor around the patient's head. Panoramic images are most useful clinically for diagnostic challenges requiring broad coverage of the jaws. Common clinical applications include evaluation of trauma including jaw fractures, location of third molars, extensive dental or osseous disease, known or suspected large lesions, tooth development and eruption (especially in the mixed dentition), impacted or unerupted teeth and root remnants (in edentulous patients), temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, and developmental anomalies. Panoramic imaging is often used in initial patient evaluation that can provide the required insight or assist in determining the need for other projections. Panoramic images are also useful for patients who do not tolerate intraoral procedures well.
{{Infobox medical device
| name = Panorex
| image = Panoramic_radiograph.jpg
| caption = A panoramic radiograph showing the full mouth
| uses = Dental imaging
| inventor =
| manufacturer = Various
| model =
| introduced =
}}


[[File:Basic panoramic radiograph.jpg|thumb|Basic panoramic radiograph]]
The '''Panorex''', also known as a '''panoramic radiograph''', is a type of [[dental radiography]] that captures the entire [[dentition]], [[alveolar bone]], and surrounding structures in a single image. This imaging technique is widely used in [[dentistry]] and [[oral and maxillofacial surgery]] for diagnostic and treatment planning purposes.


=== Indications ===
==History==
* Overall evaluation of dentition
The development of panoramic radiography began in the early 20th century, with significant advancements occurring in the 1950s. The Panorex machine, a specific brand of panoramic radiograph equipment, was introduced to provide a comprehensive view of the oral cavity, which was not possible with traditional [[intraoral radiography]].
* Examine for intraosseous pathology, such as cysts, tumors, or infections
* Gross evaluation of temporomandibular joints
* Evaluation of position of impacted teeth
* Evaluation of eruption of permanent dentition
* Dentomaxillofacial trauma
* Developmental disturbances of maxillofacial skeleton


[[File:Mixed dentition pan.jpg|thumb|Mixed dentition pan]]
==Principle of Operation==
=== Advantages ===
Panoramic radiography operates on the principle of [[tomography]], where the X-ray source and the film or sensor rotate around the patient's head in opposite directions. This movement allows for the capture of a wide, continuous image of the dental arches. The technique is designed to focus on a specific plane, known as the focal trough, where the structures are most clearly imaged.
* Broad coverage of facial bones and teeth
* Low radiation dose
* Ease of panoramic radiographic technique
* Can be used in patients with trismus or in patients who cannot tolerate intraoral radiography
* Quick and convenient radiographic technique
* Useful visual aid in patient education and case presentation


[[File:Panoramic Xray.jpg|thumb|Panoramic Xray]]
==Indications==
Panoramic radiographs are indicated for a variety of clinical situations, including:
* Evaluation of [[impacted teeth]], such as [[third molars]]
* Assessment of [[jaw fractures]]
* Detection of [[cysts]] and [[tumors]] in the jaw
* Planning for [[dental implants]]
* Evaluation of [[temporomandibular joint]] disorders
* Assessment of [[periodontal disease]]


=== Disadvantages ===
==Advantages==
* Lower-resolution images that do not provide the fine details provided by intraoral radiographs
The advantages of using a Panorex include:
* Magnification across image is unequal, making linear measurements unreliable
* Comprehensive view of the entire mouth, including both jaws and all teeth
* Image is superimposition of real, double, and ghost images and requires careful visualization to decipher anatomic and pathologic details
* Non-invasive and quick procedure
* Requires accurate patient positioning to avoid positioning errors and artifacts
* Useful for patients who cannot tolerate intraoral films
* Difficult to image both jaws when patient has severe maxillomandibular discrepancy
* Lower radiation dose compared to a full-mouth series of intraoral radiographs


<youtube>
==Limitations==
title='''Documentary Film - {{PAGENAME}}'''
Despite its advantages, panoramic radiography has several limitations:
movie_url=http://www.youtube.com/v/6DcP3bGl9M8
* Lower resolution compared to intraoral radiographs, which may miss small carious lesions
&rel=1
* Distortion and magnification of images, particularly in the anterior region
embed_source_url=http://www.youtube.com/v/6DcP3bGl9M8
* Overlapping of structures, which can obscure details
&rel=1
* Limited ability to assess bone density
wrap = yes
width=750
height=600
</youtube>


{{med-stub}}
==Procedure==
The procedure for obtaining a panoramic radiograph involves the following steps:
1. The patient is positioned in the machine with the help of chin rests, bite blocks, and forehead supports to ensure proper alignment.
2. The patient is instructed to remain still and bite on a plastic bite block to separate the upper and lower teeth.
3. The X-ray source and sensor rotate around the patient's head, capturing the image in a matter of seconds.
4. The resulting image is processed and reviewed by the dental professional.
 
==Safety and Radiation Exposure==
Panoramic radiography is considered safe, with radiation exposure levels significantly lower than those of a full-mouth series of intraoral radiographs. However, standard precautions, such as the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars, are recommended to minimize exposure.
 
==Technological Advances==
Recent advances in panoramic radiography include the integration of [[digital radiography]] systems, which offer enhanced image quality, reduced radiation exposure, and immediate image availability. Digital systems also allow for easy storage and sharing of images.
 
==Conclusion==
The Panorex is a valuable tool in modern dentistry, providing a comprehensive view of the oral cavity that aids in diagnosis and treatment planning. While it has limitations, its benefits make it an essential component of dental imaging.
 
{{Medical imaging}}
[[Category:Dental equipment]]
[[Category:Radiography]]
[[Category:Medical imaging]]

Revision as of 21:37, 1 January 2025


Panorex

A panoramic radiograph showing the full mouth



This medical device related article is a stub.


The Panorex, also known as a panoramic radiograph, is a type of dental radiography that captures the entire dentition, alveolar bone, and surrounding structures in a single image. This imaging technique is widely used in dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery for diagnostic and treatment planning purposes.

History

The development of panoramic radiography began in the early 20th century, with significant advancements occurring in the 1950s. The Panorex machine, a specific brand of panoramic radiograph equipment, was introduced to provide a comprehensive view of the oral cavity, which was not possible with traditional intraoral radiography.

Principle of Operation

Panoramic radiography operates on the principle of tomography, where the X-ray source and the film or sensor rotate around the patient's head in opposite directions. This movement allows for the capture of a wide, continuous image of the dental arches. The technique is designed to focus on a specific plane, known as the focal trough, where the structures are most clearly imaged.

Indications

Panoramic radiographs are indicated for a variety of clinical situations, including:

Advantages

The advantages of using a Panorex include:

  • Comprehensive view of the entire mouth, including both jaws and all teeth
  • Non-invasive and quick procedure
  • Useful for patients who cannot tolerate intraoral films
  • Lower radiation dose compared to a full-mouth series of intraoral radiographs

Limitations

Despite its advantages, panoramic radiography has several limitations:

  • Lower resolution compared to intraoral radiographs, which may miss small carious lesions
  • Distortion and magnification of images, particularly in the anterior region
  • Overlapping of structures, which can obscure details
  • Limited ability to assess bone density

Procedure

The procedure for obtaining a panoramic radiograph involves the following steps: 1. The patient is positioned in the machine with the help of chin rests, bite blocks, and forehead supports to ensure proper alignment. 2. The patient is instructed to remain still and bite on a plastic bite block to separate the upper and lower teeth. 3. The X-ray source and sensor rotate around the patient's head, capturing the image in a matter of seconds. 4. The resulting image is processed and reviewed by the dental professional.

Safety and Radiation Exposure

Panoramic radiography is considered safe, with radiation exposure levels significantly lower than those of a full-mouth series of intraoral radiographs. However, standard precautions, such as the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars, are recommended to minimize exposure.

Technological Advances

Recent advances in panoramic radiography include the integration of digital radiography systems, which offer enhanced image quality, reduced radiation exposure, and immediate image availability. Digital systems also allow for easy storage and sharing of images.

Conclusion

The Panorex is a valuable tool in modern dentistry, providing a comprehensive view of the oral cavity that aids in diagnosis and treatment planning. While it has limitations, its benefits make it an essential component of dental imaging.