A panoramic radiograph is a two-dimensional image created using a rotational source and detector that captures a wide, curved area, typically of the jaws and teeth. This device provides a comprehensive view unavailable through traditional intraoral film radiography, allowing practitioners to assess dentoalveolar structures, impacted teeth, jaw abnormalities, and other anatomical features in a single image.
The ability to visualize a large anatomical area in one image is invaluable for diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient education. This comprehensive perspective allows for a more thorough evaluation of dental and maxillofacial structures, enabling practitioners to identify pathologies that might otherwise be missed. The technique’s development marked a significant advancement in dental imaging, enabling more accurate and comprehensive diagnoses. This technology plays a vital role in various dental specialties, including oral surgery, orthodontics, and periodontics, contributing to more effective patient care.