You may not realize it, but your teeth can tell us a lot about your overall health. That’s why your dentist will often take x-rays of your teeth as part of your regular check-up. X-rays allow us to see things that are not visible to the naked eye, such as decay between your teeth or problems with your tooth roots.
One type of x-ray that we routinely take at URBN Dental is a panoramic x-ray. This x-ray gives us a broad overview of your teeth and jaws, and can help us detect problems such as impacted teeth, jawbone abnormalities, and tumors. Panoramic x-rays are quick and easy to take, and expose you to very little radiation.
At URBN Dental, we use digital x-ray technology, which further reduces your exposure to radiation. If you’re due for a check-up or have been experiencing dental problems, call us today to schedule an appointment. We’ll be happy to take any x-rays that are needed to help diagnose your problem and develop a treatment plan.
Our state-of-the-art dental clinic is located at 3201 Allen Pkwy, Houston, making it highly accessible to patients in and around the Museum District, West University Place, and Upper Kirby. Please schedule an appointment for your panoramic dental x-rays in Montrose.
What is a panoramic dental x-ray?
A panoramic dental x-ray is a type of x-ray that provides a wide view of the mouth, teeth, and jaws. This type of x-ray is often used to diagnose problems with the teeth, mouth, and jaws, such as cavities, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. Panoramic x-rays can also be used to plan dental procedures, such as tooth extractions and dental implants.
Why do I need a panoramic dental x-ray?
Your dentist may recommend a panoramic dental x-ray for a variety of reasons. This type of x-ray can provide a more complete view of your mouth than a traditional dental x-ray. Panoramic x-rays can be used to detect problems that may not be visible on a traditional x-ray, such as impacted teeth, tumors, and cysts.
What are some common uses of the procedure?
Panoramic dental x-rays are often used to diagnose problems with the teeth, mouth, and jaws, such as cavities, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. Panoramic x-rays can also plan dental procedures with more effectiveness. During tooth extractions and dental implants, for example, the dentist can identify the exact locations for the dental implant and minimize the risk of complications or unwanted side effects.
How does the procedure work?
A panoramic dental x-ray uses a special type of x-ray machine that produces a panoramic image of the mouth, teeth, and jaws. This type of x-ray machine rotates around the head and takes several x-rays that are then combined to create a panoramic view.
How should I prepare?
There is no special preparation required for a panoramic dental x-ray. You will simply need to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry, from your mouth and head. You may be asked to bite down on a piece of plastic or cardboard to help hold your mouth and teeth in place during the x-ray.
How is the procedure performed?
A panoramic dental x-ray is usually performed in the dentist’s office or a dental clinic. The x-ray machine will be positioned around your head, and you will be asked to bite down on a piece of plastic or cardboard. The machine will then take several x-rays that are combined to create a panoramic view.
How much are dental x-rays without insurance?
The cost of dental x-rays without insurance can vary depending on the type of x-ray and the dentist’s office. Our dentists believe in complete transparency, so they will perform a thorough evaluation, determine if you truly need a panoramic dental x-ray, and offer a quote before starting the procedure. You don’t have to worry about surprise billing.
What are the other types of dental x-rays?
- Bitewing X-Rays: Bitewing x-rays are taken with the patient biting down on a small piece of film. These x-rays show the dentist the upper and lower teeth in a single arch ( either the maxillary or mandibular arch). Bitewing x-rays are used to detect cavities in between the teeth, as well as any bone loss that might be occurring around the teeth.
- Periapical X-Rays: Periapical x-rays are taken with the film placed directly against the tooth. These x-rays show the entire tooth, from the crown to the root, as well as the surrounding bone. Periapical x-rays are used to detect any problems with the tooth, such as an abscess or cyst. They can also be used to check on the progress of a previous dental treatment, such as a root canal.
- Occlusal X-Rays: Occlusal x-rays are taken with the film placed in the patient’s mouth, but not against any particular tooth. These x-rays show all of the teeth in one jaw, as well as the bones of the jaw. Occlusal x-rays are used to detect problems with the teeth and jaws, such as tumors or cysts.
Cone Beam X-Rays: Cone beam x-rays are a type of 3D x-ray. They are taken with a machine that rotates around the patient’s head, taking multiple pictures. These x-rays provide a detailed view of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding bone.