Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Continuing Education
Panoramic Radiographs:
Technique & Anatomy Review
Course Author(s): Shelly Withers, RDH, MS; Marilynn Heyde, RDH, MPH
CE Credits: 1 hour
Intended Audience: Dentists, Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants, Dental Students, Dental
Hygiene Students, Dental Assistant Students
Date Course Online: 04/02/2018 Last Revision Date: N/A Course Expiration Date: 04/01/2021
Cost: Free Method: Self-instructional AGD Subject Code(s): 10, 730
Online Course: www.dentalcare.com/en-us/professional-education/ce-courses/ce533
Disclaimer: Participants must always be aware of the hazards of using limited knowledge in integrating new techniques or procedures into their
practice. Only sound evidence-based dentistry should be used in patient therapy.
Introduction
The purpose of the Panoramic Radiographs: Technique & Anatomy Review course is to provide students
and clinicians with a review of panoramic imaging techniques in order to take diagnostic images. The
course will review normal and abnormal radiographic anatomy and structures, as well as various
technique errors and how to correct them.
ADA CERP
The Procter & Gamble Company is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying
quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual
courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
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Course Contents through them. Radiolucent structures appear
• Overview dark or black in the radiographic image.
• Learning Objectives
• Glossary Radiopaque – Refers to structures that
• Introduction are dense and resist the passage of x-rays.
• Review of Normal Anatomical Landmarks Radiopaque structures appear light or white in a
and Variations radiographic image.
• Technique
Equipment Preparation Bony Landmarks1
Patient Preparation Anterior nasal spine – a radiopaque V-shaped
Patient Positioning structure in the maxilla that intersects the floor
• Causes and Appearance of Errors in of the nasal cavity and the nasal septum.
Technique
• Use of Panoramic Imaging for Patient External auditory meatus – a round
Education radiolucent passage way to the ear (bilateral).
• Issues Related to Standard of Care: ALARA &
ALADA Genial tubercle – a round/oval radiopaque
• Conclusion structure inferior to the mandibular incisors.
• Course Test
• References Hard palate – a radiopaque bony structure that
• About the Authors separates the nasal cavity from the oral cavity.
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Styloid process – a long, pointed radiopaque landmarks and abnormal findings, such as
structure that extends from the temporal bone artifacts or pathology, which may be present
anterior to the mastoid process (bilateral). on a panoramic image when viewing both the
mandible and maxilla in the one projection. It is
Submandibular fossa – a radiolucent area recommended to review the image systematically
toward the middle of the mandible that lies in order not to overlook anything that might be a
inferior to the mylohyoid line (bilateral). deviation from normal.4 The clinician may utilize
the technique that they are comfortable using;
Zygomatic process – a “J or U” shaped however, it must be consistent and ensure that
radiopaque structure in the maxilla that lies all diagnostic information is read.2 For instance,
superior to the maxillary first molars (bilateral). Perschbacher, recommends the following
sequence: 1) review osseous structures and
Airspaces1 surrounding soft tissues, 2) review the alveolar
Nasopharyngeal air space – a radiolucent process, and 3) review the teeth.4
area that extends from the nasal cavity to the
pharynx. It is important to evaluate the image bilaterally
to look for symmetry, or asymmetry, which can
Glossopharyngeal air space – a radiolucent indicate a pathological condition. For that reason,
area that extends posteriorly from the tongue the methods suggested by Langland, Langlais,
and oral cavity to the pharynx. and Preece, which divides the image into 6
different zones (Figure 1), is a valuable tool for
Palotoglossal air space – a radiolucent band use during interpretation.3
that lies superior to the apices of the maxillary
teeth and inferior to the hard palate. Review of Normal Anatomical
Landmarks and Variations
Introduction It is important to understand the landmarks
A panoramic image displays the patient’s normally seen on panoramic images in order
maxillary and mandibular oral and facial to prevent misdiagnosis of a radiopaque or
structures across a flat surface.1 According to radiolucent area. For the purposes of this course,
Iannucci & Howerton, “panoramic imaging is an we will focus on the structures that are most
extraoral technique that is used to examine the commonly viewed in panoramic images. For
maxilla and mandible on a single projection.” additional information, a review of the anatomic
Panoramic imaging was first introduced in structures can be found in the article by Farman2
the 1930s, but became more popular as a and the text by Iannucci & Howerton.1
diagnostic tool in the 1960s.2,3 During the
80s, panoramic imaging transitioned to a Technique
digital format, which had the advantage of
less radiation as well as immediate viewing of Equipment Preparation
the image for patient education.3 Panoramic As with any dental procedure, it is important to
imaging enables the dentist to diagnose the properly prepare the equipment beforehand.
entire dentition and facial structures that Equipment preparation includes items such as
are not visible in a full-mouth series.4 The the receptor, bite block, exposure settings, and
technique is considered part of the standard patient selection (Table 2). If the panoramic image
of care and is popular due to the relative ease is being taken with a direct digital system, which
of use, wide scope of examination, and low transfers the image directly to the computer, it
radiation dose.5 The guidelines presented is important that the proper patient is selected
by the American Dental Association (ADA) in the electronic health record prior to the
indicate that a panoramic image and posterior exposure. Otherwise, the image will be stored in
bitewings are considered an acceptable full the wrong location.
mouth series in certain cases.6
Setting the proper exposure time prior to
Dental professionals must understand the beginning the procedure will help improve
difference between normal anatomical efficiency and reduce the possibility of over-
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Figure 1. Zones of Interpretation.3
Image source: Courtesy of MH & Dr. Iwata.
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Table 1. Zones of Panoramic Image Interpretation.3
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Figure 3. Example of Pathology and Variations of Normal.
The patient’s chief complaint was pain and popping near the TMJ. The panoramic image
indicates a flattened condyle and significant wear of the glenoid fossa of the temporal bone
due to constant force from bruxism and clenching. It was also noted that the patient has very
pronounced styloid processes (bilaterally).
(Refer to the glossary for the definition of each structure shown).
Image source: Courtesy of AB & Dr. Iwata.
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exposing the patient to unnecessary radiation. recommended for all radiographic procedures.
The results of one survey of general dentists Lead aprons help provide protection for
found that clinicians did not always change radiosensitive tissues in the neck, chest,
the exposure time related to the patient’s reproductive areas, and blood forming tissue.
need. In fact 74% of respondents used the In addition, lead aprons stop nearly 98% of
same exposure time for all patients.7 In order scattered radiation from reaching reproductive
to properly protect patients, the exposure organs. There are lead-free aprons that use
setting must be tailored for each individual an alloy material instead of lead. They are 50%
patient. Most machines have settings that can lighter and safer for patients and clinicians
be adjusted according to the stature of the because they are lead-free.9
patient. For example, when imaging a pediatric
patient, the child exposure setting should be While thyroid collars are not indicated for
selected. Exposure settings should be adjusted panoramic imaging, they are effective for use
accordingly as height and mass increases. during intraoral imaging, because they have
There are usually two settings available for been shown to stop 92% of scatter radiation.9
adult patients and one for children, which One study revealed that only 2% of the general
makes it possible to tailor the amount of dentists surveyed report using a lead apron with
radiation being produced. a thyroid shield prior to taking radiographs.7
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Figure 4. Appearance of Ghost Image.
The patient’s earrings were not removed prior to imaging. Therefore, a ghost image is present.
In the example, the image of the actual left earring is on the right side and the ghost image of
the left earring is on the left side of the image. Ghost images appear distorted, higher, and on
the opposite side of the panoramic radiograph. The other error that can be observed in the
panoramic image, is that the chin is too low. This causes the spine to be more pronounced on
both sides of the image.
Image source: BR L. Iwata, DDS.
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Table 4. Patient Positioning Guidelines.5,8
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Table 5. Patient Positioning Errors.1
Another error that is visible in Figure 8 is that Most patients are able to tolerate the
the chin position is too low causing the spine to panoramic procedure with ease. However,
be more pronounced on the image. In addition, certain patients will have challenges with the
the mandibular incisors appear blurry with imaging process due to difficulty maintaining
short roots.1,10 the proper position. For example, elderly
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Figure 6. Example of incorrect patient Figure 7. The patient is positioned too far
positioning, because the midsagittal plane forward, because the canine indicator light
is not centered along the midline of the is posterior to the canine.
face.
patients may be unable to stand for the Use of Panoramic Imaging for Patient
duration of the image. Thankfully, some Education
panoramic imaging units allow for the patient With the abundance of information readily
to sit.11 If the patient is seated during the available on the internet, patients are
procedure, they must be reminded to sit becoming more informed about health care.
as upright as possible in order to prevent The dental patient is more apt to ask why
slumping, which can cause superimposition of radiographic images are necessary instead
the spine over the anterior teeth.5 of just agreeing to the treatment. Because
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of this, the dental professional must be able difference between a “beautiful” image and a
to accurately interpret the panoramic image “diagnostically acceptable” image, which is the
and educate the patient. It is important to premise of the new concept ALADA, or “as low
have the patient actively involved with their as diagnostically acceptable.”12
treatment. Incorporating this information into
the patient’s appointment will help improve It is up to the dental radiographer to determine
their understanding of their oral condition the type of examination and number of images
and increase the perceived value of the to take according to the individual needs of
appointment. Patients desire to be informed each patient. The American Dental Association
about their health and treatment options and (ADA) has created a guide for determining
taking time to explain and educate the patient when to perform various dental radiographic
will help meet this expectation. examinations.6 Table 7 outlines the effective
radiation doses for various dental radiographic
According to Rondon, panoramic imaging is examinations.13 This provides perspective
helpful for the following situations (Table 6): on the amount of radiation required for a
full-mouth intraoral series compared to a
Table 6. Uses for Panoramic Images. panoramic image.
Conclusion
Dental radiographs, especially panoramic
images, provide valuable information for both
the clinician and the patient. The information
contained within a panoramic image is helpful
for screening, diagnosis and patient education.
Issues Related to Standard of Care: As with any type of ionizing radiation, proper
ALARA & ALADA safety measures should be taken to ensure
With the increased use of diagnostic radiation that both the patient and operator are
within healthcare, it is imperative that dental protected. In addition, there is a need to be
radiography is used with regard to the overall aware of the total dose of radiation patients
dose patients may be receiving. The concept are receiving through various medical and
of ALARA, As Low As Reasonably Achievable, dental procedures. Through the concepts
helps ensure that the radiation dose is kept described in this course, dental radiographers
as low as possible to achieve the desired can take steps to reduce patient radiation
outcome.7 In fact, there is a call for imaging and to produce diagnostic panoramic images
specialists to educate colleagues regarding the consistently.
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Figure 9. Interpretation.
This panoramic image was taken when the patient was 9 years old. The clinician explained the
process of tooth development to the parent and the possible need for orthodontic treatment in
the future, due to the rotation of teeth #22 & 27.
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Figure 11. Internal Resorption.
Patient came into the office with a complaint about their front tooth. After taking the panoramic
image, it was noted that #9 had resorption on the root. The dentist then requested a periapical
radiograph to evaluate the condition more closely.
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Table 7. Effective Radiation Doses for Dental Radiographic Examination.13
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Course Test Preview
To receive Continuing Education credit for this course, you must complete the online test. Please
go to: www.dentalcare.com/en-us/professional-education/ce-courses/ce533/start-test
1. The maxillary sinus appears on the panoramic image as a radiopaque structure. The
maxillary sinus is located over the maxillary premolars and molars.
A. Both statements are TRUE.
B. Both statements are FALSE.
C. The first statement is TRUE, the second statement is FALSE.
D. The first statement is FALSE, the second statement is TRUE.
4. According to the ADA, which of the following meets the requirements for a “Complete
Radiographic Series?”
A. A Panoramic Image and Posterior Bitewings
B. 4 Bitewings and 3 Periapical Images
C. 2 Bitewings and 4 Periapical Images
D. Panoramic image
5. When the clinician interprets a panoramic image, it is important that they can
differentiate between normal and abnormal anatomical landmarks. A radiolucent
structure will appear white on a panoramic image.
A. Both statements are TRUE.
B. Both statements are FALSE.
C. The first statement is TRUE, the second statement is FALSE.
D. The first statement is FALSE, the second statement is TRUE.
6. It is important for the clinician to be systematic when viewing the panoramic image to
prevent overlooking anything that might be a deviation from normal. The dentition will
be visible in Zone 2 when utilizing this systematic approach.
A. Both statements are TRUE.
B. Both statements are FALSE.
C. The first statement is TRUE, the second statement is FALSE.
D. The first statement is FALSE, the second statement is TRUE.
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8. This round radiopaque landmark is observed inferior to the mandibular incisors.
A. Internal Oblique Ridge
B. Zygomatic Process
C. Genial Tubercle
D. Mandibular Canal
9. To allow passage of the x-ray beam, the lead apron should not have a thyroid collar. In
preparation to take the panoramic image, the clinician needs to have the patient remove
jewelry, bobby pins, hearing aids, etc. from the head and neck.
A. Both statements are TRUE.
B. Both statements are FALSE.
C. The first statement is TRUE, the second statement is FALSE.
D. The first statement is FALSE, the second statement is TRUE.
10. Lead aprons help provide protection to which of the following radiosensitive areas?
A. Blood forming tissues
B. Neck and chest areas
C. Reproductive organs
D. All of the above.
12. The anatomical landmarks of the _______________ are the floor of the orbit and the external
auditory meatus.
A. Midsagittal Plane
B. Frankfort Plane
C. Focal Trough
13. What patient positioning error occurred if the anterior teeth are narrowed and the spine
is visible on the film?
A. Patient position was anterior to the focal trough
B. Patient position was posterior to the focal trough
C. Patient’s lips are not closed
D. Patient’s head not centered
14. When positioning a patient, the ______________ must be kept perpendicular to the floor.
A. Frankfort Plane
B. Midsagittal Plane
C. Focal Trough
15. What error can be observed on a panoramic image if the patient’s tongue is not
positioned directly against the hard palate during exposure?
A. Crowns of mandibular posterior teeth may not be visible
B. Crowns of maxillary posterior teeth may not be visible
C. Roots of maxillary anterior teeth may not be visible
D. Roots of mandibular anterior teeth may not be visible
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16. A panoramic image can be an effective tool for patient education. Panoramic images
are helpful to determine if the wisdom teeth are properly developing.
A. Both statements are TRUE.
B. Both statements are FALSE.
C. The first statement is TRUE, the second statement is FALSE.
D. The first statement is FALSE, the second statement is TRUE.
18. The Image Gently in Dentistry campaign developed the “Six-Step Plan” to help minimize
exposure in which patient population?
A. Pediatric patients
B. Pregnant patients
C. Geriatric patients
D. Underserved patients
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References
1. Iannucci JM, Howerton LJ. Dental radiography: principles and techniques. 5th ed. St. Louis, MO.
Elsevier/Saunders. 2017.
2. Farman AG. Getting the most out of panoramic radiographic interpretation. In Panoramic
radiology seminars on maxillofacial imaging and interpretation. Springer, Berlin Heidelberg. 2007
(p. 1-5).
3. Langland OE, Langlais RP, Preece JW. Principles of dental imaging. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD.
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2002.
4. Perschbacher S. Interpretation of panoramic radiographs. Aust Dent J. 2012 Mar;57 Suppl 1:40-5.
doi: 10.1111/j.1834-7819.2011.01655.x.
5. Subbulakshmi AC, Mohan N, Thiruneervannan R, et. al. Positioning errors in digital panoramic
radiographs: A study. Journal of Orofacial Sciences. 2016 8(1), 22-26. Accessed March 20, 2017.
6. American Dental Association. Council on Scientific Affairs. Dental Radiographic Examinations:
Recommendations for Patient Selection and Limiting Radiation Exposure. Revised 2012. Accessed
March 20, 2017.
7. Chaudhry M, Jayaprakash K, Shivalingesh KK, et al. Oral Radiology Safety Standards Adopted
by the General Dentists Practicing in National Capital Region (NCR). J Clin Diagn Res. 2016
Jan;10(1):ZC42-5. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2016/14591.7088. Epub 2016 Jan 1.
8. Rondon RH, Pereira YC, do Nascimento GC. Common positioning errors in panoramic
radiography: A review. Imaging Sci Dent. 2014 Mar;44(1):1-6. doi: 10.5624/isd.2014.44.1.1. Epub
2014 Mar 19.
9. Howerton LJ. Advancements in radiology. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 2004 May;2(5):18, 20-21.
Accessed March 20, 2017.
10. Dhillon M, Raju SM, Verma S, et al. Positioning errors and quality assessment in panoramic
radiography. Imaging Sci Dent. 2012 Dec;42(4):207-12. doi: 10.5624/isd.2012.42.4.207. Epub 2012
Dec 23.
11. Levy H, Rotenberg LR. Tools and Equipment for Managing Special Care Patients Anywhere. Dent
Clin North Am. 2016 Jul;60(3):567-91. doi: 10.1016/j.cden.2016.03.001.
12. Jaju PP, Jaju SP. Cone-beam computed tomography: Time to move from ALARA to ALADA. Imaging
Sci Dent. 2015 Dec;45(4):263-5. doi: 10.5624/isd.2015.45.4.263. Epub 2015 Dec 17.
13. American Dental Association. Oral health topics: X-rays. Center for Scientific Information, ADA
Science Institute.Updated: September 14, 2017.
14. White SC, Scarfe WC, Schulze RK, et al. The Image Gently in Dentistry campaign: promotion of
responsible use of maxillofacial radiology in dentistry for children. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral
Pathol Oral Radiol. 2014 Sep;118(3):257-61. doi: 10.1016/j.oooo.2014.06.001. Epub 2014 Jun 16.
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About the Authors
Email: swithers@llu.edu
Email: mheyde@llu.edu
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