Skip to main content
Dental Technology

Panoramic X-Rays in Washington, DC

The Full Picture in One Scan

A panoramic X-ray captures the entire mouth — both jaws, TMJ, nasal area, and sinuses — in a single, comfortable image. It's quick, painless, and nothing goes inside your mouth, making it ideal for comprehensive assessment and treatment planning.

How Panoramic X-Rays Work

01

Preparation

Remove glasses, earrings, and any metal near the face to prevent image artifacts.

02

Positioning

Bite gently on a small plastic tab while a chin rest and light guides hold your head steady.

03

Scan

The rotating arm sweeps for about 10–20 seconds while you stand still.

04

Image Review

The digital image appears on-screen instantly for chairside evaluation and discussion.

Benefits of Panoramic X-Rays

  • Complete Overview

    One image captures all teeth, both jaws, TMJ, sinuses, and nearby structures.

  • Low Radiation

    Lower dose than a full-mouth series of intraoral images.

  • No Gagging

    Nothing is placed inside the mouth — ideal for sensitive patients.

  • Quick Scan Time

    Usually 10 to 20 seconds from start to finish.

  • Versatile Planning

    Supports implant planning, wisdom tooth evaluation, and orthodontic assessment.

  • Early Detection

    Helps identify cysts, tumors, bone loss, and jaw issues before they advance.

Our Panoramic Imaging Approach

Digital Enhancement

Adjust contrast and magnify areas for clearer evaluation and communication.

ALARA Principle

We use as little radiation as reasonably achievable while maintaining diagnostic value.

Chairside Explanation

See exactly how jaws, sinuses, and teeth relate before choosing treatment.

Individualized Scheduling

Imaging frequency is tailored to your risk and clinical needs — never routine overuse.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panoramic X-Rays

What Can A Panoramic X-Ray Show?
It shows all teeth, both jaws, TMJ areas, and nearby structures — revealing impacted teeth, cysts, bone levels, and sinus concerns.
How Often Should I Have One?
Frequency is individualized. It may be used for new-patient baselines, implant planning, wisdom tooth evaluation, or jaw monitoring.
Is The Radiation Exposure High?
No. The dose is low and comparable to a small amount of natural background radiation.
Will It Trigger My Gag Reflex?
It is usually easier than intraoral X-rays because nothing rests inside the mouth. The unit is open and the scan takes only seconds.
Can It Replace Bitewings?
They complement rather than replace each other. Panoramics give a broad overview while bitewings detect cavities between teeth with greater detail.

Get the Big Picture

Panoramic imaging gives us a complete view for smart, targeted treatment planning. Call to schedule your visit.

Call 202-244-6000