Panoramic X-Rays for Children in Denver, CO
At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we use the latest imaging technology to give Dr. Kojo Danso the complete picture he needs to provide the best possible care for your child. Panoramic X-rays are a powerful diagnostic tool that captures your child’s entire mouth — teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures — in a single, wide-angle image. They are fast, safe, and provide information that simply can’t be gathered any other way.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is a Panoramic X-Ray?
A panoramic X-ray (also called a panorex or OPG) is a specialized type of dental X-ray that captures a full, sweeping view of the entire mouth in one image. Unlike standard digital X-rays, which focus on a small number of teeth at a time, a panoramic X-ray shows all of the teeth in both arches simultaneously — along with the upper and lower jawbones, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), sinuses, and other surrounding anatomical structures.
The imaging device rotates gently around the outside of your child’s head to capture this comprehensive image in a single sweep. Your child does not have any sensors placed inside their mouth for this type of X-ray, making it particularly well-suited for younger children or those who are sensitive to intraoral sensors.
What Can Panoramic X-Rays Detect?
Panoramic X-rays provide diagnostic information that goes well beyond what a standard exam or bitewing X-ray can reveal. They are especially useful for evaluating:
Tooth development: We can see all of your child’s developing teeth — including those that haven’t erupted yet — and assess whether they are forming and positioning correctly. This is critical for identifying problems early, before they require more complex treatment.
Permanent tooth eruption patterns: Panoramic imaging shows us exactly where permanent teeth are positioned beneath the gums. This allows us to anticipate and plan for any potential eruption issues, crowding, or space concerns well in advance.
Orthodontic assessment: Because panoramic X-rays show the full dental arch and jaw structure in a single image, they are an essential tool for initial orthodontic evaluations. Many orthodontists request a panoramic X-ray as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Impacted teeth: Teeth that are blocked from erupting — such as wisdom teeth in older adolescents — are clearly visible on a panoramic X-ray along with their relationship to surrounding structures.
Jaw abnormalities and bone health: Panoramic imaging gives us a broad view of the jawbones, allowing us to detect cysts, tumors, infections, fractures, or bone density changes that may not be apparent on smaller X-rays.
TMJ evaluation: The panoramic image includes the temporomandibular joints, which can be important to evaluate in children experiencing jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening and closing their mouth.
Is a Panoramic X-Ray Safe for Children?
Yes. Panoramic X-rays are considered very safe for children and use a low dose of radiation — comparable to other dental X-rays. Because the imaging device rotates around the outside of the head rather than requiring sensors inside the mouth, exposure time is brief and the imaging process is extremely comfortable.
We follow the ALARA principle — As Low As Reasonably Achievable — and only recommend X-rays when there is a clear clinical benefit. Panoramic X-rays are recommended selectively, typically at key developmental stages or when clinical findings indicate a need for a broader view.
What to Expect During the Panoramic X-Ray
The process is quick, painless, and requires no sensors placed inside your child’s mouth. Your child will either sit or stand in the panoramic unit, resting their chin on a small support and biting gently on a bite block to position their mouth correctly. The machine then rotates slowly around the outside of their head, capturing the full image in just a few seconds. Most children find it very easy and even interesting to experience.
To learn more about panoramic X-rays or to schedule an appointment for your child in Denver, CO,, contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry at (303) 757-8844.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panoramic X-Rays
What is the difference between a panoramic X-ray and regular dental X-rays?
Standard digital X-rays (bitewings and periapical X-rays) capture detailed images of a small section of teeth at a time using sensors placed inside the mouth. A panoramic X-ray captures the entire mouth — all teeth, both jaws, and surrounding bone — in a single wide-angle image taken from outside the head. Each type serves different diagnostic purposes and they are often used together.
Are panoramic X-rays safe for children?
Yes. Panoramic X-rays use a low dose of radiation and are considered safe for children. We only recommend them when there is a clear clinical reason, and we always follow the ALARA principle — using the lowest radiation dose possible to achieve the needed diagnostic information.
Does the panoramic X-ray hurt?
Not at all. The machine rotates around the outside of your child’s head — nothing is placed inside the mouth except a small bite block to help position the teeth. The process takes only a few seconds and most children find it easy and comfortable.
At what age does a child typically need a panoramic X-ray?
There is no single set age, as panoramic X-rays are recommended based on clinical need rather than age alone. They are commonly taken around age 6 to 8 to assess mixed dentition and permanent tooth development, and again in early adolescence for orthodontic planning or evaluation of wisdom teeth. Dr. Danso will advise you when one is appropriate for your child.
Will a panoramic X-ray show if my child needs braces?
Panoramic X-rays provide important information used in orthodontic evaluations — including tooth positioning, jaw development, and spacing — but they are typically used alongside other records (photos, bite models, additional X-rays) for a complete orthodontic assessment. If we identify potential orthodontic concerns, we’ll discuss next steps with you.
How is a panoramic X-ray different from a cone beam CT scan?
Both are broader imaging tools than standard dental X-rays, but a panoramic X-ray is a two-dimensional image while a cone beam CT provides a three-dimensional view. Panoramic X-rays are sufficient for most diagnostic purposes in pediatric dental care and involve less radiation than a 3D scan. A cone beam CT is reserved for more complex situations.
How often will my child need a panoramic X-ray?
Most children only need a panoramic X-ray every few years, at key developmental stages or when specific clinical concerns arise. It is not a routine annual X-ray like bitewings. Dr. Danso will only recommend it when the clinical benefit is clear.