Panoramic radiography in dentistry

Panoramic radiography is an extraoral radiography modality that provides two-dimensional information about the teeth and the maxillofacial skeleton. It is a valuable adjunct for diagnosis and treatment planning as it facilitates one-time imaging of all teeth, the mandible, parts of maxilla including a large part of the maxillary sinus, hard palate and temporomandibular joints (TMJs). As a tomographic image is prone to errors and artefacts, a good quality radiograph in most patients can be achieved by following the standard rules and through proper patient positioning. In this article, we will discuss indications for panoramic radiography imaging, steps in taking the radiograph, as well as limitations, pitfalls and complications of the procedure. Tomographic imaging of temporomandibular joint is also discussed.