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Panoramic x-ray unit

Also called: pano, panorex, OPG

A machine that circles the head to take one wide image of both jaws.

The panoramic unit rotates around the patient's head to make one wide image of all the teeth, both jaws and nearby structures. It is good for wisdom teeth, large lesions and the jaw joints, but not for small cavities between teeth. The patient stands or sits with their chin on a rest and bites a guide.

How to spot it

  • A tall, column-shaped machine with a rotating arm, a chin rest and a bite block, usually in its own small room.

What it is used for

  • Position the patient carefully; small errors in head position blur or stretch the image.
  • Have the patient remove earrings, glasses, removable appliances and anything metal near the head and neck.

Safety and care

  • Bite blocks are single-use or sterilized; barrier or disinfect the chin rest and handles.
  • Who may take a panoramic image depends on state rules.

Related

Sources: Iannucci JM, Howerton LJ. Dental Radiography: Principles and Techniques, 6th ed. Elsevier, 2022, FDA/ADA. Dental Radiographic Examinations: Recommendations for Patient Selection and Limiting Radiation Exposure