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What does a panoramic radiograph show?

  1. An overview of a single tooth

  2. The entire mandible and maxilla

  3. The gums and surrounding tissues

  4. The condition of dental fillings

The correct answer is: The entire mandible and maxilla

A panoramic radiograph is a specialized dental X-ray that provides a broad overview of the entire mouth in a single image. It captures the complete view of the mandible (lower jaw) and maxilla (upper jaw), along with the teeth and surrounding structures. This type of radiograph is particularly valuable because it allows dental professionals to assess a wide range of conditions, including the alignment of the teeth, the presence of impacted teeth, and the overall bone structure and health. The detailed view that a panoramic radiograph offers makes it an essential tool for treatment planning, as it can highlight issues that may not be visible in other types of X-rays focused on individual teeth or localized areas. This comprehensive perspective is why option B is the correct answer when identifying what a panoramic radiograph shows.