Digital X-rays and Imaging

John R. Lindeman, DDS

PANORAMICS

The panoramic x-ray captures the entire mouth in a single image. It takes an image of the upper and lower arch and flattens it into a 2D image. The Pano is an important diagnostic tool to check tooth positioning, bone abnormalities & oral cancer, and impacted teeth including wisdom teeth. This xray is due every 3-5 years.

FULL MOUTH SERIES

The full mouth series of x-rays (aka: FMX) is 18 individual x-rays of all the teeth in the patient’s mouth. Unlike the Pano, the FMX gets close up x-ray of each tooth showing more detail. We use this series of x-rays to check for cavities, previous restorations and any abscesses. This x-ray is due every 3-5 years.

BITEWINGS

Bitewings are routine x-rays taken every 1-2 years. This x-ray shows the upper and lower crown portion of the molars and premolars to check for cavities.

INTRAORAL PHOTOS

The intraoral camera is a small wand-like camera used to take photos in the mouth. It’s used to take photos of the teeth, gums and oral tissue. These photos are used to record issues that the x-ray may not be able to capture, such as chipped porcelain crowns, abnormal gum tissue and surface cracks.