Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Panoramic Dental X-Ray
Technical Term: D0330 - Panoramic Film

Summary

A panoramic dental x-ray is a non-invasive imaging procedure that captures the entire mouth in a single shot, including the upper and lower jaws, teeth, temporomandibular (TMJ) joints, and surrounding structures. It provides a comprehensive view that helps in diagnosing dental conditions.

Purpose

Panoramic dental x-rays are used to:

• Diagnose dental issues such as cavities, periodontal disease, and tooth or jaw abnormalities.
• Plan treatments for dentures, braces, extractions, and implants.
• Detect cysts, tumors, and infections in the mouth.

Indications

• Unexplained dental or jaw pain.
• Suspicion of oral abnormalities or infections.
• Pre-treatment planning for orthodontics, prosthodontics, or oral surgery.
• Evaluation of impacted teeth, especially wisdom teeth.

Preparation

• Remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and any metallic objects from the head and neck area.
• Inform the dentist if you are pregnant or believe you might be.

Procedure Description

1. You will stand or sit in the x-ray machine, and a bite-block will be positioned.
2. The dentist or technician will ensure your head is properly aligned.
3. The x-ray arm will rotate around your head to capture the image.
4. The procedure is quick, typically taking less than a minute.

Equipment Used:

• Panoramic x-ray machine.

Duration

The actual imaging process takes less than a minute, but the entire appointment may last about 15 minutes, including preparation and positioning.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Dental office

Personnel

• Dentist
• Dental assistant or x-ray technician

Risks and Complications

• Minimal exposure to radiation, less than that of a traditional dental x-ray.
• Not typically suitable for pregnant women unless absolutely necessary.

Benefits

• Comprehensive view of the entire mouth structure.
• Quick and non-invasive.
• Helps in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Recovery

• No recovery time needed.
• Can continue with normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Follow any specific recommendations from your dentist.

Alternatives

• Traditional intraoral (bitewing or periapical) x-rays: Provide detailed images of smaller areas but require multiple images to cover the entire mouth.
• 3D Cone Beam CT: Offers more detailed three-dimensional images, but involves higher radiation exposure.

Patient Experience

• The procedure is generally pain-free.
• You may feel slight discomfort from holding the bite-block.
• The machine will not touch your body.

Pain Management:

• None required, as the procedure is non-painful.