Panoramic radiography occupies a key position in modern dental diagnostics. This technology makes it possible to obtain a complete image of the entire dentition, jaws, joints and surrounding structures in a single scan, providing the dentist with valuable information about the condition of the oral cavity. This is especially important in situations where the patient cannot independently determine the source of pain: gum inflammation, radiating pain, multiple carious lesions — all of these may mask the true cause of the problem. A panoramic X-ray (orthopantomogram, OPG) allows pathology to be identified without unnecessary guesswork, quickly and safely.
Modern European and international dentistry considers the panoramic X-ray the foundation of preventive monitoring. According to data from the World Health Organization, more than 80% of the adult population of Europe has caries, and around 30% — periodontal diseases. In CIS countries, the indicators are even higher: research by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) notes that 85–90% of adults show signs of periodontitis of varying severity. Most of these diseases can be identified precisely on an OPG long before symptoms appear.
Why a panoramic X-ray is necessary: diagnostics, prevention and treatment planning
Panoramic radiography covers not only the teeth but also the jaws, sinuses, joints and the condition of the alveolar bone. Unlike a periapical image, an orthopantomogram provides an overall view, which is critically important in comprehensive treatment.
When a panoramic X-ray is indispensable
Panoramic radiography is used in a large number of clinical situations. It helps to:
- determine the source of pain when pulpitis or periodontitis is suspected and the localization is unclear;
- identify hidden carious processes under old fillings or crowns;
- assess the condition of bone tissue and detect cysts, granulomas and abscesses;
- determine the stage of eruption and position of wisdom teeth;
- evaluate the quality of root canal treatment, obturation errors and perforations;
- conduct orthodontic planning before placing braces;
- assess the volume of bone before implantation and prosthetics.
According to PubMed, the use of OPG reduces the incidence of diagnostic errors in endodontic and orthopedic treatment by 25–40%, significantly improving the long-term prognosis.
Advantages of a panoramic X-ray: speed, safety and informativeness
Modern digital devices make it possible to obtain the image within seconds, and the radiation dose is significantly lower than that of outdated film X-rays. Diplomat Med Center uses the latest-generation equipment certified in the EU and compliant with international radiological safety standards.
Main advantages of OPG
Minimal radiation exposure
Digital radiography reduces the radiation dose by 10–15 times, making the procedure safe even for children.
Instant result
The image immediately appears on the computer screen, where the dentist can enlarge it, adjust the contrast and examine the smallest details.
High diagnostic accuracy
A panoramic image makes it possible to examine the entire dentition, including hard-to-reach areas where pathologies most often hide.
Comfort and painlessness
The procedure takes no more than 1–2 minutes and does not cause discomfort.
Panoramic X-ray in wisdom tooth extraction planning
Removing a wisdom tooth is one of the most complex dental procedures. Third molars are often positioned incorrectly, may grow toward the second molar, press against the bone or be located close to important anatomical structures.
A panoramic X-ray helps the surgeon to see:
- the direction and angle of wisdom tooth growth;
- the proximity of the roots to the inferior alveolar nerve;
- the presence of cysts, inflammation or hidden defects;
- the degree of damage to adjacent teeth.
Without an OPG, performing the surgery may be dangerous or unpredictable. International recommendations from MDPI confirm that the orthopantomogram is a mandatory step before any surgical intervention involving third molars.
Orthopantomogram before implantation and prosthetics
Implantation is a precise surgical procedure that requires an understanding of the condition of bone tissue, the degree of atrophy, bone density and the location of anatomical structures (maxillary sinuses, nerve canals). A panoramic X-ray makes it possible to preliminarily assess the volume of bone tissue and plan the implantation without the risk of complications.
In prosthetics, the OPG helps to identify hidden inflammatory processes, assess the condition of abutment teeth and compile an accurate treatment plan, eliminating errors.
Panoramic X-ray before orthodontics
Before placing braces or other orthodontic appliances, the dentist must assess the condition of the roots, the degree of enamel wear, the symmetry of the dentition and the structure of bone tissue. Panoramic radiography shows all deviations that must be taken into account when planning bite correction.
According to the Journal of Dental Research, the use of panoramic radiography in orthodontics improves diagnostic accuracy to 92%.
Repeated radiography: treatment quality control
After endodontic treatment, a complex multi-stage filling or surgical interventions, a panoramic X-ray allows the dentist to assess:
- the quality of canal preparation and obturation;
- the absence of perforations and inflammation;
- the dynamics of bone tissue restoration;
- the correctness of implant or prosthetic structure placement.
Regular radiological monitoring is part of international protocols, confirmed by the recommendations of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE).
Panoramic X-ray at Diplomat Med Center: quality, safety and high diagnostic standards
Diplomat Med Center is equipped with modern digital radiographic equipment that ensures minimal radiation exposure and high diagnostic accuracy. Our machines are safe even for children, and the resulting images are distinguished by clarity and depth of detail.
We follow international protocols, use protective measures and offer our patients a comprehensive diagnostic approach.
At Diplomat Med Center, you can undergo:
- dental diagnostics with 2D and 3D visualization using the modern Planmeca ProMax® 3D Classic device;
- dental treatment of any complexity;
- therapy for gum diseases;
- dental prosthetics;
- placement of dental implants;
- pediatric dentistry;
- orthodontic treatment using modern technologies;
- preventive care and professional cleaning.
Schedule a panoramic X-ray at Diplomat Med Center
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, planning treatment, or wish to undergo preventive examination or preparation for implantation, orthodontics or prosthetics — do not postpone diagnostics.
A panoramic X-ray is your reliable tool for early detection of diseases and preserving dental health.
Make an appointment at Diplomat Med Center today — we will provide an accurate diagnosis, a competent treatment plan and a professional approach for the entire family.
Diplomat Med Center — professional dentistry for the whole family.