Comprehensive Dental Imaging with Panoramic X-Rays
At Tropical Smiles Dental, our experienced dentist use panoramic X-rays to provide a complete view of your oral structures in a single, detailed image. This advanced imaging technology allows our team to assess the teeth, jaws, sinuses and surrounding bone with precision and clarity. Dr. Melissa Nitta incorporates panoramic X-rays into their diagnostic process to ensure accurate, efficient and personalized care for every patient.
What Are Panoramic X-Rays?
Panoramic X-rays are digital images that capture your entire mouth in one sweep, including all teeth, both jaws and the temporomandibular joints. Unlike traditional dental X-rays that focus on small sections of the mouth, panoramic X-rays offer a full, comprehensive perspective that helps our dentist detect issues that may not be visible during a standard examination.
Using advanced digital equipment, our team captures these images quickly and comfortably. The panoramic view helps identify potential concerns related to bone structure, impacted teeth, sinus conditions or jaw alignment.
When Are Panoramic X-Rays Recommended?
Our dentist may recommend panoramic X-rays during routine exams, treatment planning or when assessing complex dental conditions. They are particularly useful for:
- Evaluating tooth development and alignment
- Planning for dental implants or orthodontic treatment
- Detecting impacted wisdom teeth or hidden dental issues
- Assessing jawbone health, cysts or tumors
- Monitoring temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function
Panoramic X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool that allows our team to plan treatment accurately and prevent complications before they arise.
The Panoramic X-Ray Process
During the procedure, you will stand or sit still while the panoramic machine rotates around your head. The digital sensor captures a complete image of your mouth in seconds, eliminating the need for multiple X-rays. The process is painless, noninvasive and requires no special preparation.
Once the image is taken, our dentist will review it immediately on a computer screen, explaining the results and discussing any findings or recommended treatments. Because the system uses digital technology, radiation exposure is significantly lower than with traditional film X-rays.
Benefits of Panoramic X-Rays
Panoramic X-rays allow for precise diagnostics and comprehensive care in a comfortable and efficient manner.
Benefits include:
- Complete view of teeth, jaws and facial structures
- Quick, comfortable and noninvasive process
- Lower radiation exposure than traditional X-rays
- Accurate detection of hidden or developing issues
- Immediate access to high-quality digital images
Our dentist and team in Kailua Kona, Hawaii, are committed to using advanced technology to improve patient comfort and diagnostic accuracy. Panoramic X-rays enhance our ability to provide proactive, informed and personalized dental care.
Call 808-329-1715 today to schedule your next dental exam and experience the benefits of panoramic X-rays with our dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panoramic X-Rays
What do panoramic X-rays show?
Panoramic X-rays display the entire mouth, including teeth, jaws, sinuses and surrounding bone, in one detailed image.
Are panoramic X-rays safe?
Yes. They use low levels of radiation and are considered safe for most patients, with proper safety measures in place.
How often should I have panoramic X-rays taken?
Our dentist will recommend them as needed, typically every few years or before certain treatments like implants or orthodontics.
Does the procedure take long?
No. The process is quick and completed in seconds, providing instant digital results for immediate review.