What areas do panoramic X-rays display?

Panoramic X-rays are designed to capture a broad view of both the maxilla (upper jaw) and the mandible (lower jaw) in a single image. This type of imaging is particularly useful in dentistry for assessing the overall landscape of a patient's oral cavity, as it provides a wide-scale view of the teeth, surrounding bone structures, and temporomandibular joints, facilitating diagnosis and treatment planning.

The technology employed in panoramic X-rays allows for the capture of multiple dental structures simultaneously, which is why this single film can show both jaws together. This comprehensive view is an essential tool for dentists, as opposed to other imaging techniques that may focus only on one area, such as individual teeth or specific regions of the mouth.