Some dental problems are hiding in places the naked eye simply can’t see — between teeth, below the gumline, inside the jawbone, or deep within roots. Panoramic X-rays give us the complete picture, in a single, sweeping image that captures your entire mouth, jaw, and surrounding structures.
At Enhance Dental Centre in Kitsilano, we use panoramic imaging as a foundational diagnostic tool for new patients and periodic comprehensive assessments.
A panoramic X-ray (also called an OPG or orthopantomogram) is a wide-view, 2D dental X-ray that captures all your teeth, upper and lower jaws, TMJ (jaw joints), sinuses, and nearby anatomical structures in a single image.
The machine rotates around your head in about 15–20 seconds — it’s quick, completely non-invasive, and requires no instruments in your mouth.
Bitewing X-rays show detail of a small area — great for detecting cavities between specific teeth. Panoramic X-rays show the full mouth at once — ideal for an overall assessment of bone, anatomy, and jaw structures. Both have important roles in comprehensive dental care, and we’ll recommend the right imaging for your needs.
Yes. Panoramic X-rays use a very low dose of radiation — significantly less than a standard set of dental films. We follow strict guidelines to ensure imaging is only recommended when clinically necessary.
A: For most patients, every 3–5 years is appropriate, though your dentist may recommend more or less frequent imaging based on your specific needs and dental history.
A: No special preparation is needed. You’ll be asked to remove any jewellery, glasses, or removable dental appliances before the scan.
A: Dental X-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. If you are pregnant or think you may be, please let us know before any imaging.
A: They can detect some cavities, but bitewing X-rays provide better detail for cavity detection between teeth. Panoramic and bitewing X-rays complement each other.
A: Many plans cover panoramic X-rays every few years. We’ll check your benefits and let you know your coverage before the imaging is done.
