Panoramic X-Rays
Dr. Stephen K. Malone and his staff understand the important connection between oral and physical health. For this reason, they are not only concerned with individual teeth. They also want to protect your jawbone health, dental alignment, facial structure, and the balance of your bite. Advanced panoramic x-rays can provide a detailed view of your entire oral structure. Using these images, Dr. Malone can uncover dental concerns such as impacted teeth, tumors, jaw damage, and more. By combining digital bitewing x-rays with digital panoramic x-rays, your Knoxville dentist can provide truly comprehensive care. Contact our office today to schedule panoramic x-rays today.
What Are Panoramic X-Rays?
Like other types of x-rays, digital panoramic x-rays use electromagnetic waves to reveal images of your teeth and bones. Although the waves will pass through your soft tissues, your hard tissues will absorb the energy. The x-rays will capture an image of your entire mouth, including all of your teeth, jaw joints, sinus passages, mandibular nerve, and full jawbone. Dr. Malone can print off the images for close examination. He will also share them with you, keeping you fully informed about your dental health and treatment options.
The Importance of Panoramic X-Rays
Panoramic x-rays can reveal a number of health concerns. These include:
- Impacted teeth
- Gum disease
- Sinus problems
- Early signs of oral cancer
- Benign tumors
- TMJ Disorder
- Bone degeneration
- Fractures and other jawbone problems
Dr. Malone can also use panoramic x-rays to plan oral surgery procedures. For example, if you are going to receive dental implants, he can closely examine your jawbone. Then he can determine how to place your implant posts while impacting limited amount of the surrounding bone. He can also find out if you need bone grafting or a sinus lift before implant placement. Finally, Dr. Malone may use panoramic x-rays to monitor children’s dental development and bite alignment.
What to Expect from the X-Ray Procedure
The panoramic x-ray process is quick and easy. Although dental x-rays involve negligible radiation exposure, Dr. Malone will cover you with a lead apron for maximum safety. You will remain standing through the process, and the x-ray machine will circle around your head. The device will capture a full picture of your mouth from one side of your jaw to the other.
Dr. Malone will not take panoramic x-rays at every visit. The frequency of your x-rays will depend on your particular dental health needs. Typically, he will recommend traditional bite wing x-rays more often. As stated above, panoramic x-rays are extremely safe with virtually no risk of radiation damage. Nevertheless, if you are pregnant, Dr. Malone may wait until your baby is born before taking x-rays.
Schedule Your Exam and Panoramic X-Rays Appointment
Dental exams and x-rays can prevent future discomfort and the need for extensive restorative treatment. Contact Dr. Malone’s practice to book panoramic x-rays today. With an office in Knoxville, Dr. Malone proudly serves patients from the surrounding areas, including Powell, Karns, Farragut, Seymour, Maryville, and Oak Ridge.