A review of panoramic radiography and its potential use in implant dentistry

Radiographic follow-up of dental implants is one of the most important clinical parameters a practitioner can assess. Recent advances in the design of panoramic radiograph machines have increased their potential use in the longitudinal clinical evaluation of dental implants. Changes from the earliest designs allow for a projection geometry that more closely approximates the shape of the human jaw. The fundamentals of panoramic radiography are reviewed including common errors in patient positioning, their effect on the radiographic image, and how to correct the errors. Comparative advantages and disadvantages of intraoral periapical and bitewing films as compared with panoramic radiographs are discussed, specifically focusing on the amount of radiation exposure, ability to detect bone loss/bone defects, and inherent problems with both systems.