These X-rays are used for both preventive and diagnostic purposes. The main use is the detection of caries, periodontal disease, and conditions that affect the roots of a tooth. They also find purpose in determining the number of roots of a tooth before performing a root canal, the number of canals in a root and more. When the dental pulp is affected by bacteria, that can lead to a dental abscess. Sometimes the symptoms won’t be present so the only way that a dentist can determine that is with an X-ray. Periapical x-rays are the ones that are usually done, but the panoramic type reveals the condition of all teeth so it is also an option. Other uses include looking at the position of third molars, the presence of dental cysts, the position od of the maxillary sinus, bone abnormalities, fractures, and a number of other conditions.

It is true that the small X-rays give a more detailed picture of specific teeth. For example, it is much easier to study the depth of caries on a small, periapical image. But it is also possible to diagnose it on a panoramic one. If the dentist needs further details, he can always order an additional periapical X-ray. The panoramic images are a great way to explore the condition of the mouth when the dentist is planning an orthodontic treatment. He can study the position of teeth, whether there are some teeth that haven’t erupted yet, impacted ones, and more. It is also a diagnostic method before the planning of implants, fixed restorations, and dentures.